What Is a Supply Charge on a Laundromat Bill?
Last reviewed 2026-09-12 by Jaken Energy editorial desk. Next review scheduled 2027-03-12.
Direct answer
A supply charge covers the cost of energy commodity—electric generation or natural gas molecules—on a laundromat bill. In retail choice states, supply may appear from a retail electric provider or gas marketer while the utility still delivers service. Supply is distinct from delivery charges for wires, pipes, and local infrastructure.
Definition: Supply charge
Supply charges reflect wholesale energy markets, supplier margins, and contract terms negotiated or defaulted for your account. On electric bills, supply often appears as energy charges per kWh from your supplier or utility default service. On gas bills, commodity charges may list per therm or CCF from a marketer or bundled utility tariff.
Laundromat owners in choice markets can sometimes change supply price through broker-facilitated contracts without altering the delivering utility. Supply volatility affects pro formas independently of delivery rate cases.
Laundromat example
A Chicago-area coin laundry with a retail electric supplier might see 'Supplier Energy Charge' at 8.2¢/kWh on the supply page while Commonwealth Edison delivery charges appear separately. A gas-fired dryer store in a competitive gas market could show marketer therms charges distinct from local utility pipeline fees.
Related terms
Sources
- EIA Retail Choice FAQ — U.S. Energy Information Administration
Supports: Utility still delivers in choice states; supply may be separate
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