Located within the heart of Pennsylvania, Altoona is not only one of the principal cities of the Altoona Metropolitan Statistical Area, but it is also one of the ten biggest cities in the state.

Electricity Deregulation in Altoona

In 2002, a new house bill passed in the Pennsylvania senate, which allowed for electricity deregulation to take place throughout the state. For those living in Altoona this new effort meant the no longer had to receive their energy from their state-appointed utility.

This effort gave residents in Altoona the power to choose their preferred electricity provider instead of getting their power from the state-appointed utility. With deregulation, residents were able to choose whether they wanted to receive their bill as a fixed or variable rate plan, short term plan, or if they simply wanted to shop for the lowest rate possible.

Those living in Altoona can also take advantage of renewable energy options as the area is known for its work in the green energy movement. By partnering with companies such as AEP Energy, those who wish to have a more eco-friendly energy plan can choose from green options available in the area.

Altoona?s Electricity Providers

Residents living in Altoona today can shop for their preferred type of energy plan from the retail supplier of their choice.

When electricity deregulation took effect in Altoona, several retailers found their way to the area, creating a competitive market within the city. This means shoppers are often able to save a great deal by switching their electric plan from the state-appointed utility to one of these retail suppliers.

Several well-known suppliers now offer their services to those living in Altoona.

Residents and business owners alike can shop for plans from companies such as North American Power, AEP Energy, Direct Energy and Constellation. All of these retailers are independent providers, but the state still works to make sure they offer quality, reliable service, so consumers can shop for their new plan with confidence.

History and Culture

Altoona first developed around the thriving railroad industry that brought many to

Pennsylvania decades ago. The city was formed in 1849 as a stop for maintenance

along the railway. As more and more people began stopping in the community, the town began to expand and it was incorporated as a borough in 1854.

Today, residents and visitors can still learn about this detailed history with the Pennsylvania railroads at destinations such as the Railroaders Memorial Museum. The Horseshoe Curve is also a popular tourist attraction for those interested in the railroad?s influence in the city.

Those looking to take in all that Altoona has to offer will find that the city has its own Double A Eastern League baseball town, the Altoona Curve and one of the area?s oldest symphonies; the Altoona Symphony Orchestra has been performing in the area for more than 75 years.

Population

The city of Altoona is home to approximately 46,000 residents and is part of the greater Altoona Metropolitan Area which has more than 127,000 residents within its boundaries.

The greater Altoona area includes neighboring communities such as Holidaysburge, Duncansville, Logan, Tyrone, Bellwood and Newry.

The heart of Altoona city is split into several different neighborhoods. Downtown and Center City provide residents with plenty of dining, shopping and entertainment. Dutch Hill, Mansion Park and the 5th and 6th Wards pay homage to the city?s unique roots while other neighborhoods such as Garden Heights, Little Italy and Curtin are more residential in nature.