You have the ability to choose your own electricity supplier.

Your choice may be to stay with PECO, or go with one of the 11 alternative electricity providers approved by the Public Utility Commission.

I urge you to learn about your options so you can get the most out of your utility dollars. PECO and alternative suppliers offer various discounts, bonuses and special rates for senior citizens and veterans, but it is up to the consumer to find out what provider can give them the best deal.

The first step should be determining how much you currently pay for service, and then calculate your projected bill from PECO based on the rate of 9.92 cents per kilowatt hour starting Jan. 1. From there, contact competitive suppliers and get information on their contract agreements and the kilowatt-per-hour rate they offer. Verify that the provider is on the list approved by the PUC.

Ask if the rate offered is a fixed rate or a variable rate that can change by the hour or day.Depending on how you schedule your day, such as when you use appliances the most, there could be a significant savings.

Other points to consider include:

• Does the supplier offer a budget billing plan?
• What is the length of the agreement? Can the supplier change the price during that time? If so, when can it change and how would you be notified?
• Is there a cancellation fee or penalty for switching suppliers?
• Does the supplier offer a choice of energy sources, such as renewable energy?
• PECO will still deliver the electricity to your home, so will you get one bill, or two?
• Is there a bonus for signing up?
• Does the provider guarantee special rates for seniors and/or veterans?

You can learn more about your rights and options at the PA Power Switch website operated by the PUC at www.papowerswitch.com. You can also contact my office at 7731 Frankford Ave. in Philadelphia for assistance. Our phone number is 215-333-9760.