The Complete Guide to Utility Connections in New Jersey

Moving to a new home in New Jersey? One of the most important aspects of relocation is setting up your utilities. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about connecting electricity, choosing the right providers, and ensuring a smooth transition for all your essential services.

Understanding New Jersey's Utility Landscape

New Jersey has a unique utility market with several major providers serving different regions of the state. Before you begin the process of connecting or transferring utilities, it's helpful to understand the landscape.

The major electric utilities in New Jersey include:

• PSE&G (Public Service Electric and Gas)
• JCP&L (Jersey Central Power & Light)
• Atlantic City Electric
• Orange & Rockland Utilities

For natural gas, the primary providers are:

• PSE&G
• New Jersey Natural Gas
• South Jersey Gas
• Elizabethtown Gas

How to Connect Electricity in Your New Jersey Home

Setting up electricity in your new home is typically the first utility you'll want to address. In most cases, you'll need to establish service at least 3-5 business days before your move-in date.

Steps to Connect Electricity:

1. Determine your service area: Find out which utility company services your new address.
2. Contact the provider: You can typically set up service online, by phone, or in person.
3. Provide necessary information: This includes your new address, desired service start date, and personal information for credit check purposes.
4. Schedule a connection appointment: If the electricity is currently off at the property, you may need to schedule a time for a technician to turn it on.
5. Consider energy supply options: In New Jersey's deregulated market, you can choose your energy supplier for potentially better rates.

Comprehensive Utility Setup for Your New House in New Jersey

Beyond electricity, you'll need to set up several other essential utilities. Here's a checklist to ensure you don't miss anything:

For water and sewer services, most New Jersey municipalities have a local water authority or department that manages these utilities. Unlike electricity and gas, these services typically don't offer provider choices.

Trash and recycling collection in New Jersey varies by municipality. Some towns include this service with property taxes, while others require residents to contract with private haulers.

How to Compare Utility Rates in New Jersey

One of the benefits of New Jersey's deregulated energy market is the ability to shop around for the best rates. Here's how to compare effectively:

Tools for Comparing Energy Rates:

1. New Jersey Board of Public Utilities website: Offers resources and information about licensed suppliers.
2. UtilityRatesFinder.com: A comprehensive comparison tool that allows you to see multiple providers' rates side by side.
3. NJ Clean Energy Program: Provides information about renewable energy options and potential incentives or rebates.

When comparing rates, be sure to look beyond just the price per kilowatt-hour or therm. Consider contract length, early termination fees, renewable energy options, and whether the rate is fixed or variable.

Transferring Utilities to Your New Address

If you're moving within New Jersey and already have services with providers in your area, you may be able to simply transfer service rather than setting up new accounts.

Tips for a Smooth Utility Transfer:

• Plan ahead: Contact your current providers at least 2 weeks before your move.
• Have information ready: You'll need both your current and new addresses, your account number, and your desired service end and start dates.
• Return equipment: For services like internet and TV, make arrangements to return or transfer equipment.
• Final readings: Request final meter readings for your current residence to ensure accurate final bills.
• Update contact information: Ensure your providers have your current phone number and email address.

Special Considerations for New Jersey Residents

Seasonal Considerations

New Jersey experiences all four seasons, which means your utility usage and costs will vary throughout the year. Winter heating costs (especially in North Jersey) and summer cooling costs can be significant. Consider budget billing options to even out monthly payments across the year.

Energy Efficiency Programs

New Jersey offers various rebates and incentives for energy-efficient home improvements through the NJ Clean Energy Program. These can help reduce your utility costs in the long run.

Solar Options

New Jersey is one of the top states for solar energy adoption. The state offers incentives for residential solar installation, which can significantly reduce electricity costs over time.

Conclusion

Setting up utilities in your new New Jersey home doesn't have to be complicated. With proper planning and the right resources, you can ensure a smooth transition without interruption to essential services.

For the easiest experience, consider using FreeConcierge.net's free utility connection service. Our team of experts will handle all the details of setting up or transferring your utilities, saving you time and ensuring you get the best rates available in your area.