Ortitay Encourages Residents to Shop for Best Electric, Gas Rates

October 28, 2021

BRIDGEVILLE – As we enter the winter months, Rep. Jason Ortitay (R-Washington/Allegheny) today reminds residents now is the time to shop for the best electric and natural gas rates to reduce heating costs.

“With electric competition, Pennsylvanians are able to choose their electricity supplier and a 1999 state law allows consumers to choose their natural gas provider,” Ortitay said. “If you have not taken advantage of these opportunities, I encourage you to do so in order to help save money. Roughly two-thirds of all households in Pennsylvania have what is called ‘default service,’ which is the provider you automatically received when your electricity service started on your home. You might be missing out on a better rate.”

The websites PAPowerSwitch.com and PaGasSwitch.com allow consumers in most areas of the state to choose who supplies their electricity and natural gas. The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission urges consumers to remain vigilant about questionable energy marketing activities and possible scams, particularly with unsolicited telemarketing calls requesting quick action and promising far-reaching benefits as compared to previous energy bills.

“There are several benefits to shopping for an energy supplier,” Ortitay added. “In this ever-changing market, you can lock in a rate and save money on your monthly bills. You can also look for a specific type of energy supplier if you want your electricity to come from solar, wind or nuclear power. I encourage you to take advantage of consumer choice in Pennsylvania to find a plan that saves you money and better fits your needs than the one you were assigned by your utility.”

The 46th Legislative District includes Collier and South Fayette townships and Bridgeville, Heidelberg, McDonald and Oakdale boroughs in Allegheny County. It also encompasses Canton, Cecil, Mt. Pleasant, Robinson and Smith townships and Burgettstown, McDonald and Midway boroughs in Washington County.