All customers of electric distribution companies, as defined in § 16-1, shall have the opportunity to purchase electric generation services from their choice of electric suppliers, as defined in § 16-1, in a competitive generation market in accordance with the schedule provided in this section. As of July 1, 2000, all customers shall have the opportunity to choose an electric supplier. On and after January 1, 2000, electric generation services shall be provided in accordance with § 16-244c to any customer who has not chosen an electric supplier or has declined, failed or been unable to enter into or maintain a contract for electric generation services with an electric supplier. The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority may adopt regulations, in accordance with chapter 54, to implement the phase-in schedule provided in this section.