Trystan Casey
If you're an Ohio resident, you can choose your electricity supplier from a pool of energy companies. Ohio's Electric Choice program lets you select your supplier of electric generation, with options for both fixed-rate and variable-rate plans. Your utility company is determined by your address and cannot be changed. When choosing an electricity supplier, it's important to review the contract summary and terms of service, as well as compare prices and consider any incentives offered. Community aggregation is another option, where local communities join together to buy electricity as a group, typically for 2-3 years. Ohio citizens are protected by the Customer Bill of Rights, and the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) offers resources to help compare offers and choose a supplier.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Choice of supplier | Ohio residents can choose their electricity supplier from a pool of available companies |
| Default plan | If you don't choose a supplier, you'll be automatically enrolled with your utility company, called the Price to Compare (PTC) |
| Price to Compare (PTC) | The price to compare is different for each consumer and is shown on your bill |
| Contract term | The contract term will be outlined in your contract summary |
| Early termination fee | Most suppliers charge a termination fee to switch to another supplier before your contract expires |
| Source of power | You can choose a clean energy supplier |
| Community aggregation | Local communities are allowed to buy electricity as a group |
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What You'll Learn
Fixed-rate vs. variable-rate plans
In Ohio, consumers have the power to choose their electricity supplier and plan. Fixed-rate and variable-rate plans are two of the options available to you.
Fixed-rate plans
Fixed-rate plans offer stability and predictability. With this plan, you lock in a rate per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for the duration of your contract, which can range from 3 to 36 months. This means that your rate will not change, even if market prices fluctuate. Your energy bill is calculated by multiplying your fixed rate per kWh by the electricity you've used, plus any additional fees or charges. So, while your rate per kWh remains the same, your total bill can vary based on your usage. Fixed-rate plans are a good option if you prefer predictable bills and protection from market volatility. They are also a good option if your electricity usage is high during peak demand periods.
Variable-rate plans
Variable-rate plans offer more flexibility, but also more volatility in pricing. With this plan, the rate may change on a monthly basis based on market factors such as weather, demand, and the price energy providers pay to buy electricity from power generators. For example, during mild weather when demand is low, a variable-rate plan can offer cheaper electricity. However, during high-demand periods, the cost per kWh can increase significantly, making budgeting more challenging. Variable-rate plans are a good option if you're willing to take on some risk for the potential of lower rates during certain times of the year. They may also be more cost-effective if your usage is lower and you can handle some fluctuation in your bill.
Other things to consider
When choosing between a fixed-rate and a variable-rate plan, consider your risk tolerance and desire for predictability. Review the contract terms, cancellation fees, and other clauses before signing up for a new plan. You can also use a free price comparison tool to compare rates from different providers in Ohio. Additionally, remember that in Ohio, you are protected by the Customer Bill of Rights.
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Energy Choice in Ohio
Ohio's Electric Choice program allows you to choose your electricity supplier. You can select from a pool of available companies to supply your electric generation. Your electric distribution utility (The Illuminating Company, Ohio Edison, or Toledo Edison) will continue to deliver electricity to your home as reliably as always. You can choose to keep your distribution utility as your electric generation supplier, or you can opt for a different company.
To make this decision, you can compare the offers available to you and learn more about choosing an electric supplier. The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) offers an Apples-to-Apples website at energychoice.ohio.gov to help with this. You can also call PUCO at 800-686-7826. Additionally, you can refer to the Price to Compare (PTC) feature on your bill. This is calculated by taking the amount of your Bypassable Generation and Transmission-Related Component and dividing it by the total number of kilowatt-hours used for the month. An alternative supplier's price for generation and transmission must be lower than your PTC for you to save money with that supplier.
When choosing an energy plan, you can opt for a fixed-rate or a variable-rate plan. With a fixed-rate plan, you pay a consistent rate for each billing cycle throughout the duration of the contract, which is beneficial for budget-conscious consumers. On the other hand, with a variable-rate plan, your rate will fluctuate monthly based on the market price of energy, and you won't be charged an early termination fee if you switch to another plan.
It's important to review the contract terms, including the length of the contract, early termination fees, and other important considerations. You should also check if the energy provider has any appealing incentives, such as a satisfaction guarantee or loyalty rewards. Additionally, you can choose a green energy plan, which includes electricity generated from renewable sources like solar power, wind energy, and hydropower.
Remember, if you don't choose a supplier, your electric distribution utility will continue to supply and deliver your electricity as the default option.
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How to compare plans and suppliers
As an Ohio citizen, you are protected by the Customer Bill of Rights. However, it is still important to review the Contract Summary and Terms of Service documents for each plan you are considering. The Contract Summary outlines your contact term, rate, early termination penalty, and the source of power (traditional vs. renewable). The Terms of Service document outlines the terms of your contract agreement.
When comparing plans and suppliers, you can use the Price to Compare feature on your bill. This is calculated by taking the amount of your Bypassable Generation and Transmission-Related Component and dividing it by the total number of kilowatt-hours used for the month. An alternative supplier's price for generation and transmission must be lower than your price to compare for you to save money with that supplier.
You can also use online marketplaces such as Choose Energy, Price to Compare, and PowerSetter to compare plans and suppliers. These platforms allow you to input your ZIP code and compare rates and plans available in your area.
When reviewing plans, it is important to understand the different types of energy plans offered. The key difference between plans is the rate structure and how your supplier determines its electricity rates. Fixed-rate plans offer a constant rate for the duration of your contract, typically lasting 12 to 36 months, and can help with budgeting. Variable-rate plans fluctuate monthly based on the market price of energy, leading to higher bills during times of high energy demand. Prepaid plans are also available, offering a contract-free solution where customers add funds to their utility account, and providers deduct funds as energy is used.
Additionally, consider the source of power. Renewable energy plans are available in Ohio, including electricity generated from solar power, wind energy, and hydropower. These plans can help reduce your carbon footprint while still being competitive and affordable.
Finally, be sure to review the contract details, including any early termination fees, account fees, and potential for unauthorized switching ("slamming"), which is illegal.
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Community aggregation
In Ohio, you can choose the company that supplies your electric generation supply. The state's Electric Choice program allows you to either keep your electric distribution utility as your electric generation supplier or choose a different company. All electric generation suppliers must be certified by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO).
There are two types of energy aggregation programs: opt-in and opt-out. In an opt-in plan, customers may voluntarily sign up to participate if a government body or another type of organization chooses to aggregate. In an opt-out plan, consumers are automatically enrolled in the aggregation plan unless they choose to opt out. In order for communities to offer an opt-out energy aggregation program, they must first obtain voters' approval in a local election.
The City of Dayton, for example, offers an Electric Power Aggregation program that provides three options for residents: participate in the program and be automatically opted in, participate in the program with the fossil fuel option, or opt out of the program. The main benefit of aggregation is that the City of Dayton can achieve a more sustainable electricity supply by requiring 100% renewable energy at a competitive price for residents and businesses.
If you are considering community aggregation, it is important to review the Contract Summary and Terms of Service for the plan you are considering. The Contract Summary outlines the contact term, rate, early termination penalty, and the source of power (traditional vs. renewable). The Terms of Service is the legal document with the terms of your contract agreement.
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Customer protections
As an Ohio citizen, you are protected by the Customer Bill of Rights. You should review the Contract Summary and Terms of Service for the plan you are considering when you compare Ohio electric plans. The Contract Summary outlines your contact term, rate, early termination penalty, and the source of power (traditional vs. renewable). The Terms of Service is the legal document with the terms of your contract agreement.
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) oversees rate setting for your utility, the Price to Compare (or Standard Service Offer) and delivery rates. They also protect consumer interests. The PUCO reviews and approves every electric supplier in Ohio. Only a Certified Retail Electric Supplier (CRES) can sell you competitive electricity supply. The local utility company delivers electricity to your home and is your default supplier if you don't switch to a CRES.
If you are moving within the same utility delivery area, most electricity providers allow you to transfer your electricity contract to the new address without penalty. If you are moving to a different utility area, you can terminate your electric supply contract without penalty according to the Ohio Administrative Code.
If you are a Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) customer, you are not eligible to choose an alternate generation supplier.
If your service has been switched without your authorization, call the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) at 800-686-7826. You have the right to cancel any change in its supplier of electric service within seven calendar days after the notice has been sent by calling the electric utility at the telephone number on the notice.
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Frequently asked questions
Contracting with an electric company in Ohio allows you to choose your supplier of electric generation. You can select a supplier that aligns with your values and offers the best rates and plans for your needs.
You can compare offers from different electric companies in Ohio by visiting the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) website at energychoice.ohio.gov. This website helps you understand the choices available and make an informed decision. You can also refer to your most recent bill, which includes your "Price to Compare." This price is unique to each consumer and helps determine if switching to a different supplier will save you money.
There are two types of rates to choose from: fixed-rate and variable-rate. Fixed-rate plans offer a consistent rate for each billing cycle, beneficial for budget-conscious consumers. Variable-rate plans fluctuate monthly based on the market price of energy, offering flexibility to switch suppliers frequently. Other things to consider include any appealing incentives, such as satisfaction guarantees or loyalty rewards, and whether the supplier is licensed in your state.
Yes, you can switch your electric company in Ohio without penalty. If you are moving within the same utility delivery area, most electricity providers allow you to transfer your contract to the new address without penalty. If you are moving to a different utility area, you can terminate your contract without penalty according to the Ohio Administrative Code. Additionally, you can switch suppliers without penalty if you do so before receiving a confirmation letter.
AEP Energy is a popular choice among Ohio residents, offering competitive rates, excellent customer service, and flexibility with early termination. AES Ohio also offers a standard offer rate to all customers within its service territory, and customers can return to this rate at any time if they switch to an alternative supplier.
