In 1997, a new legislation began to deregulate energy across the entire state of Pennsylvania. By 2002, House Bill 1509 was officially passed, meaning all of Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia was officially deregulated.

Electrical deregulation meant residents could choose their provider, preferred electricity rate and the type of energy plan they would pay, from variable rate to long-term options.

Deregulation also gave residents of Philadelphia the ability to get their energy from renewable resources. The city is currently 16th in the country for electricity generated by renewable resources, and suppliers throughout the region work to provide these green energy options to their residents.

Philadelphia?s Electricity Providers

Suppliers and utilities in Philadelphia work to make sure area consumers get the electricity they need for their residential and business properties. PEPCO Energy Company is the primary electrical wire company in the area, serving nearly 4 million residents from around the city.

While most residents rely on PEPCO for issues with their wires, they do have more of a choice when it comes to their individual electricity retail suppliers. Established companies such as TriEagle, Constellation, Zoom Energy and AEP Energy all service the greater Philly area and provide competitive electricity rates in Philadelphia for the city?s electricity consumers.

As the largest city in Pennsylvania, Philadelphia has long held a spot as one of the most robust and fastest growing cities in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Known by many as the city of ?Brotherly Love? Philadelphia has a reputation for being one of the most tourist-friendly cities in the state.

History

Philadelphia is undoubtedly one of the most historically significant cities in the region.

Founded by William Penn on October 27th, 1682, this city has long been known for its role in the early development of the United States of America.

Walking around the city, residents will find numerous nods to historical events that happened in this city. Both the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were drafted in the city. In 1775, the US Marine Corps was founded at the Tun Tavern in downtown.

The city is also home to the world-famous cracked liberty bell and to the Centennial Exposition which celebrated the 100 year anniversary of America?s independence.

Culture

As the second largest city on the East Coast, there is plenty to do in Philadelphia as this city has been known as a cultural mecca of the region. Museums such as the Penn Museum and the Betsy Ross House pay homage to the early days of Philadelphia and the early days of America?s history.

Science fans can visit the Franklin Institution, while little ones are welcome at the Please Touch Museum for children. Music fans can visit the Opera Philadelphia or take in a show at the PFS Roxy Theater.

However, if you really want to take in the unique culture of Philadelphia, simply stop by one of the local stands and try a world-famous Philly Cheesesteak; a treat that simply cannot be replicated outside the city.

Population

As of the 2014 census, more than 1.5 million people live inside the city of Philadelphia, and these numbers only continue to grow. For those who call this historic city home, there are several neighborhoods that make up the downtown city borders and provide lovely living spaces outside the confines of downtown.

Dozens of neighborhoods make up downtown Philadelphia, including Logan Square, Market East, Fishtown, Spruce Hill, Old City, Fairmont and Cedar Park. Each neighborhood has its own unique personality and offers residents with plenty to do.

Those who want to reside slightly outside the city can explore the neighboring suburbs and surrounding neighborhoods of Philadelphia. These neighborhoods bring together more than 6 million people that live in the greater Philadelphia metropolitan area. This includes neighborhoods such as Blue Bell, Flourtown, Wyncte, Devon and Berwyn.