Differences between free market and protected market

What does protected service mean

The greater energy protection service is a supply regime in which tariffs are regulated and established by the Regulatory Authority for Energy, Networks and the Environment (ARERA) at a national level. In this system, users do not have the possibility to freely choose their energy supplier, but are obliged to use the service offered by the local network operator or other suppliers designated by ARERA to supply electricity and gas.

The protected market is designed to guarantee consumer protection and ensure stable and transparent tariffs. The tariffs are reviewed periodically by ARERA to take into account fluctuations in the cost of raw materials and market conditions.

In the free market, however, consumers have the freedom to choose between multiple offers proposed by different suppliers, guaranteeing greater possibilities for customization and flexibility of energy contracts.

Differences between free and protected markets

Rates and offers

In the free market, suppliers can offer competitive commercial offers, with fixed prices, discounts, personalized packages and additional services to meet different needs. For example, Enel Energia offers Scegli Oggi an advantageous offer for those coming from the protected market.

In the enhanced protection service, the tariffs are established and updated by the Regulatory Authority for Energy, Networks and the Environment (ARERA). While this offers stability to consumers, the Authority's tariffs do not include special offers or promotions or value-added services.

Services and flexibility

In the free market, suppliers can offer a range of additional services, such as dedicated customer support, mobile apps to track consumption, electronic invoicing and flexible payment options. Scegli Oggi Relax by Enel Energia includes the 360 ​​Plus Protection Service by Enel the bill directly to your e-mail box thanks to Bolletta Web and you will make your contribution to the environment, using energy certified by the new “Guarantees of Origin” system of the Energy Services Manager (EC directive 2009/ 28/EC).

In the enhanced protection service, the main focus is the stability of the tariffs defined by ARERA. Consumers looking for a simple, standardized solution may prefer this option.

Possibility to choose the supplier

In the free market, consumers can switch providers at any time without additional costs or interruptions in service. This flexibility allows you to always look for the best offer on the market and adapt to your needs. Scegli Oggi by Enel Energia is designed specifically for those coming from the greater protection service, as it applies a 30% discount for the first 12 months on the list price of the energy component and a marketing and sales fee (CCV Luce) equal to 120 euros/POD/year (VAT and taxes excluded) for the first 12 months of supply, to be paid on a monthly basis.

The other expenditure components will be applied as provided by the Energy and Environment Regulatory Authority (ARERA). For further information, consult the technical and economic conditions of the offer.

In the enhanced protection/protection service, the territorially competent operator  is identified by the Authority and without the possibility of choice for the consumer.