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Electric and natural gas service is comprised of two parts: delivery and supply. Delivery service is performed by a public utility, an organization that maintains the lines and other infrastructure for electricity and natural gas. The local public utility company delivers your electricity and/or natural gas, reads your meter and addresses problems in your home. In case of emergency, you should call your local public utility company. Public utilities are subject to State and federal consumer protection regulations. Charges for electric and natural gas delivery service are based on rates or prices approved by the New York State Public Service Commission (PSC).
You may purchase electricity supply from your public utility or from an energy service company (ESCO). The price for the supply portion of electricity is set competitively through wholesale markets administered by the New York Independent System Operator, an entity regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, or through contracts between your utility and generators of electricity. The price for electric supply in wholesale markets, which is paid by your utility, is passed on to retail consumers. The price for the supply portion of natural gas is set competitively through wholesale markets. The price for natural gas supply in wholesale markets, which is paid by your utility, is also passed on to retail consumers.
The New York State Department of State Division of Consumer Protection has developed informational materials regarding electric, natural gas and telecommunications services.
Energy
Understanding Your Utility Statement
Knowing how you are charged for electricity and natural gas may help you reduce your monthly utility bill. The Division has prepared this guide to help residential consumers of electricity and natural gas understand their monthly bills.
Home Heating with Oil and Propane
This brochure provides plain-language information to assist consumers in shopping for heating oil and propane. It is designed to help consumers reduce their home heating bills, and increase awareness of New York State programs meant to encourage conservation and assist low-income consumers with their heating bills.
ESCO’s: Consumer Information related to Energy Service Companies
This resource can help you decide whether to switch from your utility to another supplier of electricity and/or natural gas.
Saving Money on Heating Costs
Tips to help reduce household heating costs.
Phone Service
Consumer Guide to Telephone Services
This brochure explains telephone service options and assists consumers in making an informed decision regarding the telephone service that best meets their needs.