National Energy Shopping Day
June 21
About National Energy Shopping Day
National Energy Shopping Day takes place on Sunday, 21 June 2026, the first official day of summer. Hosted each year by the Retail Energy Supply Association (RESA), the day encourages consumers to review their current energy plan, compare available offers, and choose a gas and electricity supplier that suits their needs. It is a yearly prompt to make sure you are not paying more than you need to.
What is National Energy Shopping Day?
National Energy Shopping Day is an annual awareness initiative that reminds energy consumers to shop around and compare their gas and electricity plans. It is run by RESA, the trade association that represents retail energy suppliers in the United States. The day celebrates the freedom to choose a supplier in markets where that option exists, and it points consumers towards tools and resources that make comparing plans straightforward. The aim is simple: encourage people to check whether their current deal still works for their household or business, and to explore alternatives, including cleaner energy options, that might serve them better.
When is National Energy Shopping Day?
National Energy Shopping Day is held on the first official day of summer, the summer solstice, which in 2026 falls on Sunday, 21 June. Tying the day to the start of summer gives it a memorable hook, landing just as warmer weather often pushes household energy use, and cooling costs, higher.
Why National Energy Shopping Day Matters
Energy is one of the largest recurring costs many households and businesses face, yet plenty of people stay on the same plan for years without ever checking whether a better deal exists. National Energy Shopping Day matters because reviewing your options can lead to real savings and a plan better matched to how you actually use energy. RESA points to the value of competitive markets, noting that between 2008 and 2020 states with energy choice saw prices fall by around 7.4 percent, while states without competition saw increases of about 21.1 percent over the same period. Competition can also drive innovation, from renewable energy products to smart home features, and push suppliers to improve their customer service. The day encourages consumers to take advantage of those benefits rather than leaving money on the table.
How to Get Involved in National Energy Shopping Day
Marking the day takes only a little time and could save you money. Here are some practical steps:
- Dig out your latest bill – Find your current rate, contract end date, and usage so you have a clear baseline to compare against.
- Check whether you can choose – Energy choice is available in 14 states and the District of Columbia, so confirm whether your area allows you to select your own supplier.
- Compare plans online – Use comparison tools to line up offers side by side, looking at the rate, contract length, and any fees.
- Consider clean energy options – Many suppliers offer renewable energy plans or green add-ons, so factor in the environmental impact alongside the price.
- Read the fine print – Watch for introductory rates that rise later, early termination fees, and whether the price is fixed or variable.
- Look beyond price alone – Features such as smart home integration, energy efficiency programmes, and strong customer service can add real value.
- Set a reminder to review annually – Make energy shopping a yearly habit so you never drift onto an uncompetitive rate without noticing.
- Share what you learn – Tell friends and family how to compare plans, especially anyone who has never switched supplier.
History of National Energy Shopping Day
National Energy Shopping Day was established by RESA, the Retail Energy Supply Association, which represents competitive retail energy suppliers across the United States. The organisation created the day to advocate for consumers’ right to choose their own supplier and to remind people to shop and compare the products and offers available to them.
RESA chose the summer solstice, the first official day of summer, as the date, giving the campaign a clear annual anchor. Each year RESA promotes the day through consumer resources, including educational materials and a short instructional video, designed to make comparing energy plans feel less daunting. The association also directs people to a consumer resource centre where they can find and compare the options available in their state.
While energy choice is not yet available everywhere, the day has become a recurring reminder for those who can switch to make sure their plan still serves them. It reflects a broader push to help consumers understand competitive energy markets and use them to their advantage.
Noteworthy Facts About National Energy Shopping Day
- The day is hosted by RESA, the Retail Energy Supply Association.
- It is held on the summer solstice, the first official day of summer.
- Energy choice is currently available in 14 states and the District of Columbia.
- Those choice markets represent roughly 28 percent of the US population.
- Between 2008 and 2020, competitive states saw prices fall around 7.4 percent, compared with rises of about 21.1 percent in monopoly states.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is National Energy Shopping Day?
It is an annual day, hosted by RESA, that encourages consumers to review their energy plan and compare gas and electricity offers so they can choose the supplier that best fits their needs.
When is National Energy Shopping Day in 2026?
It takes place on Sunday, 21 June 2026, the first official day of summer.
Can everyone in the US shop for their energy supplier?
No. Energy choice is currently available in 14 states and the District of Columbia. In other states, energy is supplied by a regulated monopoly and consumers cannot select an alternative supplier.
Spread the Word
Help raise awareness by sharing National Energy Shopping Day with your friends, family, and followers. Use the hashtags #EnergyShoppingDay and #EnergyShoppingDay2026 on social media. If you care about getting better value and reducing waste, you might also explore World Environment Day, which highlights cleaner choices for the planet.
Related Awareness Days
- World Environment Day – Encourages cleaner energy and sustainable choices, complementing the green options highlighted on Energy Shopping Day.
- Buy Nothing Day – A counterpoint that prompts reflection on mindful spending and consumption.
- World Saltmarsh Day – Highlights natural systems that benefit when we reduce our energy footprint.
Links
- Visit the official National Energy Shopping Day page
- Explore more awareness days at AwarenessDays.com
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