Long Island KeySpan customers wary of high energy prices may have a cheaper alternative.

Experts say energy service companies, or ESCOs, could be a more cost-effective way to purchase gas. Officials say 27,000 of KeySpan?s 450,000 Long Island customers use an ESCO, in which Keyspan sends the meter reading to the third-party company. The ESCO then sends KeySpan the amount of money they can charge based on the consumer?s contract with the ESCO. Energy experts say ESCOs work best for big customers like manufacturers and housing complexes, and that they can be risky for the average homeowner. They, along with KeySpan officials, encourage all consumers to do their homework before making any changes. Related Information:KeySpanNew York State Department of Public Service