Empowering Choice: How Massachusetts Residents Benefit from Retail Energy Freedom

October 23, 2024

Massachusetts voters won the right to access the retail electric market 26 years ago when they voted overwhelmingly for a referendum question that swept aside the big utility monopoly that had dominated the state’s electricity market for decades. Today, nearly half a million of the state’s residents benefit from shopping in the competitive electric market, with dozens of retail energy suppliers competing for their business.

Grace Rock Walker of Medway is one of the many Massachusetts consumers passionate about the benefits of a restructured retail energy market. Grace can choose from many options, including lower energy usage rates, fixed rate, long-term pricing for predictable billing, and incentives to reduce energy usage during peak times that help families like hers control their energy costs.

“In an era where the cost of living seems to escalate by the day, whether it’s groceries, housing, or utility bills, it’s reassuring that we have options available to ease the burdens faced by the people of Massachusetts,” Grace says. “We’re a high-cost state – maybe the highest – and our state leaders need to do everything they can to make Massachusetts a more affordable place to live. Fortunately, in Medway, we have a champion in our corner. Representative Jeff Roy has been an advocate for the people of Massachusetts, staunchly defending our right to shop around and secure the best deals on our electric bills.”

Rather than banning competition, Rep. Roy supports consumer choice. He recognizes the importance of bolstering consumer protections and enhancing public education to ensure everyone in the state can find savings or opt for a plan that matches their unique energy needs and preferences. 

While electricity shopping has existed in Massachusetts for over two and a half decades, many customers don’t realize they have options. Consumer education and empowerment are essential for making informed decisions. States like Texas, Pennsylvania, and Ohio excel in educating customers alongside the Public Utility Commissions (PUCs). Electric customers in Massachusetts can use the state-run website www.energyswitchma.gov to compare electric supply offers and shop for the best plan for their family. This easy-to-use platform has enabled consumers to save thousands of dollars, especially during the last few winters when utility rates skyrocketed.

Grace is already doing her part by spreading the word about the benefits of retail energy. She keeps a pre-drafted text message on her cell phone that she shares with her friends whenever the high cost of living comes up. 

“The heating season is at our doorstep in Massachusetts, and the state should be doing its own social media campaign to let people know how easy it is to shop yourself,” Grace says. “It’s been a great benefit for my family. Having the freedom to choose is important, and every family can benefit from shopping for the electric plan that works best for them..and it is so easy to make the switch!”

The Retail Energy Advancement League has developed resources to make residential customers aware of their options in competitive energy states and equip them with the information needed to make well-informed decisions within the market.

  • Energy Shopping Guides: Residential customers can use these step-by-step guides to learn how to effectively shop and compare electric suppliers through their state-managed shopping platforms.
  • Monthly Energy Product Summaries: Utilize these summaries to break down the lowest fixed-rate offers and 100% renewable offers from retailers, organized by each utility service territory. Additionally, view a selection of value-added and unique products available from retailers in each territory. Subscribe to receive monthly summaries.
REAL Choice