CleanChoice Energy: Comprehensive Review

CleanChoice Energy is one of the largest retail renewable energy suppliers in the United States, serving residential and commercial customers in deregulated electricity markets. While the company positions itself as a green energy alternative to traditional utilities, customer experiences vary widely. This review examines CleanChoice's business model, common complaints, and whether the service delivers value—or headaches.

What Is CleanChoice Energy?

The Business Model

CleanChoice Energy is a retail electricity supplier (also called an ESCO—Energy Services Company), not a utility company. Here's how it works:

1. Your utility still delivers electricity through existing power lines
2. CleanChoice purchases renewable energy credits (RECs) or power from wind/solar farms
3. You pay CleanChoice for the energy portion of your bill
4. Your utility continues billing for delivery charges and infrastructure

Key distinction: CleanChoice doesn't install solar panels on your home or change your physical electricity connection. They supply the energy that flows through your existing utility's wires.

Where CleanChoice Operates

As of 2026, CleanChoice serves customers in:

• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Illinois
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• New Jersey
• New York
• Ohio
• Pennsylvania
• Washington D.C.

Availability depends on whether your state has deregulated electricity markets.

Is CleanChoice Energy Legitimate?

Yes, But With Caveats

CleanChoice is a legally registered business with proper licensing in operating states. However, "legitimate" doesn't automatically mean "right for you." The company operates in a sector with structural issues that affect customer satisfaction.

Regulatory Standing

Factor	Status
Business registration	Active in all operating states
Public Utility Commission oversight	Subject to state PUC regulations
BBB accreditation	Rated (varies by state market)
Consumer complaints	Present across multiple state AG offices

Common Customer Complaints

1. Rate Increases After Introductory Periods

The Pattern:

• Customers sign up for attractive introductory rates
• Rates increase significantly after the initial period
• Auto-renewal locks customers into higher rates without clear notification

Customer reports indicate:

• Introductory rates: 8-12 cents/kWh
• Post-introductory rates: 15-25 cents/kWh (sometimes higher than utility rates)
• Limited warning about pending rate changes

Key Issue: Many customers report being surprised by rate increases, claiming they weren't adequately notified of renewal terms.

2. Cancellation and Early Termination Fees

Typical Contract Terms:

• Fixed-rate contracts: Usually require 12-24 month commitments
• Early termination fees: $50-$150 depending on contract type
• Cancellation windows: Must typically cancel 30-60 days before renewal

Customer Frustration Points:

• Difficulty reaching customer service to cancel
• Auto-renewal before cancellation requests are processed
• Disputes over whether cancellation notice was received

3. Confusion About What CleanChoice Actually Does

Many complaints stem from misunderstanding the business model:

Common Misconceptions:

• "CleanChoice installed solar panels on my house" (No—they supply electricity, don't install equipment)
• "My bill will go down" (Not necessarily—renewable energy often costs more than conventional)
• "I'm off the grid now" (No—you're still connected to your utility's infrastructure)

The Company Perspective: CleanChoice would argue customers should read contracts more carefully.

The Consumer Perspective: Energy markets are complex, and clearer explanations upfront would reduce confusion.

4. Marketing and Sales Tactics

Door-to-Door and Telemarketing Issues:

CleanChoice uses third-party marketing companies that have generated complaints:

• Aggressive door-to-door sales: Representatives claiming to be "from the utility"
• Utility bill inspections: Salespeople asking to see utility bills (contains personal account information)
• High-pressure tactics: Limited-time offers requiring immediate decisions
• Confusing language: Ambiguous terms about "clean energy" vs. "lower bills"

Important Note: CleanChoice states that these are independent contractors, and any misrepresentation violates company policy. However, customers often blame the brand for contractor actions.

Rate Analysis: Is CleanChoice Competitive?

The Cost Question

CleanChoice typically charges more than standard utility rates. Here's why:

Factor	Impact on Cost
Renewable Energy Credits (RECs)	Adds 1-3 cents/kWh premium
Marketing costs	Door-to-door and digital marketing expenses
Customer acquisition	High cost to acquire each customer
Corporate margins	Profit margin built into rates

Sample Rate Comparison (Illinois, 2026 estimates)

Supplier	Rate per kWh	Monthly Bill (750 kWh)
ComEd (utility)	12-14¢	$90-$105
CleanChoice (intro)	9-11¢	$68-$83
CleanChoice (regular)	15-19¢	$113-$143

Reality check: Renewable energy from retail suppliers often costs more, not less, than utility-provided power.

When CleanChoice Might Make Sense

Consider CleanChoice if:

• ✅ You prioritize 100% renewable energy over cost savings
• ✅ You're in a state with poor utility renewable options
• ✅ You can monitor rates and switch if prices increase
• ✅ You understand the contract terms completely

Avoid CleanChoice if:

• ❌ You're looking to reduce your electricity bill
• ❌ You don't want to monitor energy markets
• ❌ You prefer simple, stable utility billing
• ❌ You're uncomfortable with contract lock-in periods

How to Evaluate Any Retail Energy Supplier

Whether considering CleanChoice or competitors, ask these questions:

Before Signing

1. What is the total rate per kWh? (Including all fees and charges)
2. Is this rate fixed or variable? (Variable rates can spike)
3. What happens after the introductory period? (Get the renewal rate in writing)
4. What's the cancellation policy? (Early termination fees, notice requirements)
5. How do I actually cancel? (Phone, email, online portal—test it works)
6. Are you the utility company? (The answer should be no—if they hesitate, that's a red flag)

Red Flags in Energy Marketing

🚩 "We're from your utility" (ESCOs are not utilities) 🚩 "Your rates are going up, we can lock them" (Scare tactics) 🚩 "Free energy" or "government program" (These don't exist for ESCOs) 🚩 Refusing to leave without a signature (High-pressure tactics) 🚩 Requests to see your utility bill (Contains account numbers they could use)

Alternatives to CleanChoice

Option 1: Community Solar

• What: Subscribe to a local solar farm
• Pros: No equipment installation, often lower rates than retail suppliers
• Cons: Availability varies by location, waitlists common

Option 2: Rooftop Solar Installation

• What: Install solar panels on your property
• Pros: Long-term savings, energy independence, tax credits
• Cons: High upfront cost, long payback period

Option 3: Green Utility Programs

• What: Many utilities offer optional renewable energy programs
• Pros: Simple, no contract switching, often competitively priced
• Cons: May not be 100% renewable, varies by utility

Option 4: REC Purchases

• What: Directly purchase renewable energy credits
• Pros: Flexibility, direct support of renewable projects
• Cons: Doesn't change your actual energy mix, complex to evaluate

If You're Already a CleanChoice Customer

Monitoring Your Account

• Track your rate: Compare monthly rate per kWh to your utility's published rate
• Set calendar reminders: 60 days before contract renewal to evaluate options
• Keep records: Save all communications, especially cancellation confirmations

Cancelling CleanChoice

1. Review your contract: Understand early termination fees and notice requirements
2. Document everything: Record call dates, representative names, confirmation numbers
3. Cancel in writing: Email creates a paper trail phone calls don't
4. Confirm with utility: Verify your account has returned to utility service
5. Monitor next bills: Ensure no CleanChoice charges appear

Escalating Issues

If you have unresolved problems:

Resource	When to Contact
CleanChoice customer service	First point of contact for billing issues
Your state's Public Utility Commission	For rate and service complaints
State Attorney General	For deceptive practice allegations
Better Business Bureau	To file formal complaints and see company responses

The Bottom Line: Is CleanChoice a Scam?

No—but that doesn't mean it's right for everyone.

CleanChoice operates a legitimate business in a problematic industry. Retail energy supply has inherent conflicts between customer value and company profit that create friction.

Who CleanChoice Works For

• Environmentally conscious consumers willing to pay a premium for renewable energy
• Savvy energy shoppers who monitor rates and switch when necessary
• Customers in markets with limited green utility options

Who Should Look Elsewhere

• Budget-conscious consumers focused on lowering bills
• People who prefer simple, stable utility relationships
• Anyone uncomfortable with contract terms and rate monitoring

Key Takeaways

1. CleanChoice is a retail supplier, not your utility: Your utility still delivers power
2. Expect to pay more, not less: Renewable premiums are the norm
3. Read the full contract: Understand renewal rates and cancellation terms
4. Monitor your rates: Be prepared to switch if rates become uncompetitive
5. Compare alternatives: Community solar or utility green programs may offer better value

---

Related Reading:

• Renewable Energy Scams: How to Avoid Greenwashing Fraud
• Energy Supplier Scams vs. Legitimate ESCOs
• Understanding Your Electricity Bill: ESCO vs. Utility Charges

---

Last updated: 2026-09-24. Verify current rates and terms directly with CleanChoice Energy before making decisions.

---

Got blindsided by a solar deal that did not deliver?

You may have a claim — and the law may make the company that defrauded you pay your legal fees. Our 2-minute eligibility check screens for the consumer-protection statutes that apply to your situation (TILA § 130, the FTC Holder Rule, your state UDAP) and connects you with a consumer-protection attorney in our network if you qualify. Free review, no upfront cost, no obligation.

Start your free 2-minute review →