We often compare prices for groceries, cars, and electronics. But when it comes to our energy costs, many Ohioans overlook the potential for substantial savings. That’s because Ohio is one of the few states to offer residents the ability to choose their own electricity supplier, which allows them to take control of their power bills. By selecting an alternative provider, a consumer can save thousands of dollars per year on their electricity bill and unlock a brighter financial future.
PUCO’s Apples to Apples Comparison Chart
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) maintains an online tool called Apples to Apples that helps Ohioans compare different providers and their rates. The tool is easy to navigate and lays out offers side-by-side, focusing on rate types, renewable content (Ohioans have access to nuclear, wind, hydroelectric, solar, and biomass power), contract length, fees, and more. Using this tool can help consumers make informed decisions about which plan is the best fit for them and their family.
To use the tool, select the utility that serves your home from the list on the left and click “Continue.” Then, enter your address and ZIP code to review a list of competitive suppliers and their current plans in your area. Be sure to search for both your utility’s default energy rate—also known as the Price to Compare—as well as local transmission charges, if applicable.
Once you’ve found a plan that appeals to you, you can select it and follow the provided instructions to sign up. Once you complete the process, your new supplier will handle transferring your service and billing from your current utility to your chosen provider. In most cases, this is handled for you with no out-of-pocket cost.
Besides the Apples to Apples comparison tool, there are other resources available to Ohio consumers that can help them find the right energy provider for their needs. For instance, the Energy Choice Ohio website features a directory of certified suppliers that is regularly updated and is available to all Ohioans. This directory includes customer reviews, plan details, terms and conditions, and other pertinent information to help Ohio residents make an educated decision.
Alternatively, you can also use the ElectricRate web tool to compare current electric and natural gas rates in your area. Just enter your zip code and you will be presented with a live feed of current supply offers from competing suppliers—all in a handy comparison table. Please note that the offers listed on ElectricRate are curated from suppliers’ stated offerings and may change at any time. The tool only displays certified suppliers that are actively enrolling new customers at the time of publication. Viewing this page requires the free Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you do not have a copy, it can be downloaded from Adobe’s site. The PUCO’s Apples to Apples tool is a great place to start your search for an alternative energy provider, but you should always thoroughly research any offers before signing up.