New Yorkers have had the opportunity to shop for their electricity provider. The New York Public Service Commission (PSC) started by ‘unbundling’ your energy bill, separating charges for delivering energy to your home or business from charges for the energy itself. It’s in the energy, or commodity, charges that you can choose an alternate provider.

Alternate electric providers, known as Energy Service Companies, or ESCOs, in New York, compete for your business in most utility areas, including National Grid & New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG). In New York, each utility continues to offer what is called ‘default service,’ or service to customers who have never shopped for an energy provider. This default service serves as a benchmark for pricing in the market.

Villages of Angelica, Andover and Wellsville offer municipal electricity rates. While other areas are offered services by National Grid, NYSEG and RG&E.

Natural gas service is offered through National Fuel to some areas; however many homes choose to use fuel oil or wood as an energy source. Recently, homes and a few businesses have converted to solar energy as well.

There are several municipalities within Allegany County that provide water service; however, commercial services and rates vary. Those areas not served by municipal water are either required to use spring water if one is available or make use of a water well.

Similar to water services, sewer is offered by several municipalities in Allegany County. Areas not served by municipal sewer often have a septic system on site or may require one upon development.