Aggregation of Energy Customers
Aggregation of Energy Consumers
As an energy consumer, it is important for you to know about changes in the energy - electric and natural gas - industries in New York State. The State's move to competition makes it possible for you to purchase electricity and natural gas supply from energy service companies, known as ESCOs or marketers, instead of your local utility.
Large users of energy are already taking advantage of their buying power to obtain energy savings. As an individual, you can buy your energy directly from an ESCO or through an "aggregation" program that combines electric and natural gas customers to increase buying power. Aggregation programs can be run by groups such as a community, social, or business organization that could combine a large number of individual consumers. Aggregation of group members can give buying power to the group that the individual consumer does not otherwise have.
Most consumers may already belong to one or more groups including religious organizations, fraternal groups, homeowners and neighborhood associations, unions, business associations, professional organizations, and community groups.
What You and Your Group Can Do
- Urge your group to consider an energy aggregation program for its members.
- Your group can contact a number of ESCOs. If the group decides to move forward, it can request bids from the ESCOs to get the best possible package, and then negotiate a contract.
- The group can meet with energy consultants, brokers, or aggregation agents that may be able to assist in learning more about the benefits of aggregation and to help with the process.
- Call toll-free 1-888-Ask-PSC1 (1-888-275-7721) for information about ESCOs that may be active in your area or visit our Web site at http://www.powertochooseny.com/ .
NYS Department of Public Service
3 Empire State Plaza
Albany, NY 12223
