What is energy deregulation?

Energy deregulation is the process of removing or simplifying the amount of government regulation on the market of gas and electric services. It creates a free market, allowing the consumer to choose her gas or electricity company.

Energy deregulation opens up the market of energy options for consumers, a market once controlled by monopolies. The decision to enact energy deregulation is typically done on a state level. As of 2014, 17 states have made the choice to deregulate consumers' energy choices. Energy deregulation allows the consumer to choose between various options if she is unhappy with her current energy provider.