Energy Consumers Edge is an independent educational project that aims to help readers understand home energy use, utility costs, and energy-related choices. Reliable sources and clear explanations of data are central to that purpose.
This policy describes how we intend to select, present, review, and correct the information used in our articles, comparisons, and calculation tools. Our goal is to make it easier for readers to understand where information comes from and how it applies to their circumstances.
The Sources We Use
We aim to select sources that are relevant to the question, geographic area, and period being discussed. Depending on the subject, these may include:
- Government energy agencies for energy statistics, definitions, and published data.
- Utilities and regulators for current tariff schedules, billing rules, and service information.
- Program administrators for eligibility, application requirements, and incentive details.
- Consumer protection agencies for information about contracts, marketing claims, and consumer choices.
- Academic and technical research for methods, measurements, and evidence about energy use.
- Manufacturers and product documentation for equipment specifications, operating instructions, and rated performance.
- Established independent organizations where their research methods, evidence, and relevance can be assessed.
When practical, we prefer original data, official documents, or primary research over descriptions that do not identify their sources. A source’s relevance, publication date, methods, and possible limitations matter as well as its reputation.
How We Identify Sources
We aim to identify important sources within or alongside the content that relies on them. Where practical, we provide a direct link to the relevant publication, dataset, tariff, product document, or methodology so readers can examine it themselves.
Depending on the material, useful details may include the source organization, publication or dataset name, geographic coverage, units, publication date, data period, and date accessed. When a source is revised, moved, or no longer available, we aim to review the affected content and provide an appropriate update where possible.
Linking to an organization does not mean that it sponsors, endorses, or is affiliated with Energy Consumers Edge.
Energy Prices, Bills, and Tariffs
Energy prices can be described in different ways. A published average price may help readers understand a general trend, but it is not necessarily the rate available to a particular customer. Actual bills may depend on the utility, plan, location, billing period, consumption, fixed charges, taxes, and other conditions. U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA)
Where we use average prices, we aim to identify the source, customer group, geographic area, units, and period covered. Where we discuss a specific tariff or program, we seek to refer to the relevant utility, regulator, or administrator and identify its effective dates when available.
An effective rate calculated by dividing a total bill by usage can be useful for understanding that bill. If it includes fixed charges, however, it may differ from the incremental rate that applies to additional or avoided electricity use. We aim to make that distinction clear when it matters to a calculation.
Estimates, Measurements, and Calculations
Our articles and tools may use measured values, published data, user-provided inputs, default assumptions, or mathematical models. We aim to distinguish among these sources and explain important assumptions and limitations.
For a calculation, relevant details may include the formula or model, input units, time period, energy rate, operating hours, and any costs or conditions excluded. Where users can enter their own values, the result depends on the information they provide.
An estimate is a scenario, not a guarantee. Actual energy use or savings can differ because of weather, equipment settings, household behavior, rate structures, and other factors. We do not intend to present modeled production or potential savings as a measured result.
Data Currency and Revisions
Data may describe a past month or year even when it was published or accessed more recently. Where relevant, we aim to distinguish the period covered by the data, the source publication or revision date, and the date our content was reviewed.
We seek to review time-sensitive information, such as rates and incentives, when updates or credible reports of change come to our attention. If a dataset or external feed stops updating, we aim to identify the latest available period rather than imply that the information is current or live.
Sources may revise previously published figures. When a revision materially affects our content, we aim to review the affected numbers and update the explanation where appropriate. A “last reviewed” date should reflect a substantive review.
Third-Party Data and Attribution
We may use or refer to public datasets, external models, APIs, product information, and other third-party materials where relevant and available. We aim to credit their sources and follow applicable permissions, licenses, attribution requirements, and terms of use.
When we calculate a figure from third-party data, we aim to make clear that it is a calculation or interpretation by Energy Consumers Edge and identify the underlying data and method where practical. Third-party figures may contain their own assumptions or limitations.
Corrections and Reader Reports
If we find or receive a credible report of incorrect, outdated, or misleading information, we aim to investigate and correct it as appropriate. Significant corrections may be noted on the affected page. The time needed to resolve an issue can vary depending on the evidence and verification required.
To report a concern, please use the site’s contact page. Include the page address, the figure or statement in question, and a relevant source. For a calculation issue, please also include the inputs used and the result you expected when possible.
Use of This Information
Our content and tools are for general education. They cannot account for every home, utility plan, contract, or local requirement. Before making a decision based on a specific rate, incentive, installation, or financial arrangement, consult the relevant utility, program administrator, source document, or appropriately qualified professional.