# Glossary ## Glossary Index ### Account Linking Securely connect your utility account with your login credentials or account number so Arbor can analyze usage, evaluate plans, and, if able to find a better rate, initiate a switch. This can be disconnected anytime. ### All-in Cost Total expected supply cost considering rate, usage, term, and fees; basis for Arbor recommendations. ### Autopilot Arbor feature that monitors rates and secures you a new supply rate plan on an ongoing basis. You may opt-out of a supply rate plan at any time without any cancellation fees. ### Co-op Utility A **co-op utility** (electric cooperative) is a member-owned electricity provider that serves specific communities or regions. Many co-ops do not participate in retail electricity choice, which can prevent customers in co-op territories from switching to third-party suppliers, **even inside a deregulated state**. ### Data Privacy How Arbor collects, uses, retains, and safeguards customer information; see [Privacy Policy](/content/legal/privacy/index.html) for details. ### Data Security Technical and administrative measures (e.g., encryption in transit/at rest, access controls) used to protect data. ### Default Service **Default service** is the electricity supply option customers receive if they do not choose a competitive supplier. In deregulated markets, default service is typically provided through the utility (or a utility-run program), and rates may change periodically. Customers may be able to switch away from default service to a competitive supply plan where allowed. ### Deregulated Market Regions where customers can choose a third-party retail energy provider for electricity supply. ### Early Termination Fee (ETF) A penalty a provider may charge for ending a fixed-rate contract early. Arbor covers any early termination fees if there are any. ### Electricity Electricity is a form of energy resulting from the flow of electric charge. It powers homes, industries, and devices, making it essential for modern living. The flow of electricity is typically generated through various sources such as fossil fuels, nuclear power, and renewable resources like solar and wind. ### Municipal Utility A **municipal utility** is an electricity provider owned and operated by a city or local government. Municipal utilities often operate outside retail electricity choice programs. That means customers served by a municipal utility may **not be able to switch suppliers**, even if they live in a state that has deregulated areas. ### PUC / PSC **PUC** (Public Utility Commission) and **PSC** (Public Service Commission) are state agencies that regulate electricity markets and enforce consumer protection rules. Depending on the state, they may oversee utility delivery rates, approve supplier participation, publish market rules, and provide public resources related to electricity choice and customer rights. ### Regulated Market A **regulated market** is an electricity market where a single utility (or public power authority) provides both the electricity supply and delivery service to customers. Because there is no retail competition, customers generally **cannot choose a third-party supplier**, and rates are typically set or approved by state regulators. ### Retail Energy Provider A company that sells the electricity supply in deregulated markets. Sets the Supply Rate and contract terms; distinct from the Utility Provider that delivers power. ### Savings Methodology (Estimated Annual Savings) Arbor’s approach for projecting savings, including current vs. alternative Supply Rate, usage, term, and fees. ### Service Territory A **service territory** is the geographic area where a specific electric utility is responsible for delivering electricity (the poles, wires, meters, and outage response). In states with retail electricity choice, eligibility to shop suppliers often depends on **the utility’s service territory**, not just the state. Two customers in the same state may have different options depending on which utility serves their address. ### Supply Rate The price per kWh for electricity supply charged by a retail provider; distinct from utility delivery charges unless on the utility default supply plan. ### Supply vs. Delivery Split Many electricity bills include two main components: **supply** and **delivery**. - **Supply** is the cost of the electricity you use (the energy itself). In deregulated markets, customers may be able to choose a supplier for the supply portion. - **Delivery** is the cost to deliver electricity through the utility’s infrastructure (poles, wires, meters, maintenance, and outages). Delivery is handled by the local utility and generally remains the same even if a customer switches suppliers. This “split” is why customers can often switch suppliers without changing their utility. ### Utility Provider The company that delivers electricity and maintains lines in your area (e.g., PECO, PPL, Duquesne Light). Does not change when Arbor switches your supply plan. ### Start lowering your electricity bills today Take 2 minutes to join thousands of other Arbor households lowering their energy costs. [Check my availability](https://app.joinarbor.com/signup) [About Us](/content/about/index.html) [Reviews](/content/reviews/index.html) [Careers](https://jobs.ashbyhq.com/Arbor) [Contact Us](/content/contact-us/index.html) TX BR230078. ME2023-00252. MD IR-6483. NH REG 2023-082. OH 23-125153E. IL 23-0681. PA A-2023-3043382. MA EB-571. NJ EA-0727 & PA-0287. 1. The potential savings estimate was calculated through a rate comparison of a customer's new supply rate obtained through Arbor with the default utility rate. It is based on the 85th percentile of all Arbor customers who received a new supply rate plan, annualized based on savings YTD. Actual savings may vary and are not guaranteed. Arbor may receive compensation from suppliers for the services it provides to you. Arbor does not have access to every supplier rate and does not guarantee that the rates available through Arbor are the lowest available at any given time. See Terms of Service for details. Need help? Visit our FAQ page or contact us at support@joinarbor.com or 888-836-3145, Monday-Friday 9-5 EST. Arbor is located at 1606 Headway Cir STE 9756, Austin, TX 78754.