Best Electricity Suppliers in Ohio 2025
Compare PUCO-certified electricity suppliers to find the best rates and service for your Ohio home.
Finding the Best Ohio Electricity Supplier
Ohio's deregulated electricity market gives you the power to choose your electricity supplier from dozens of PUCO-certified companies. Since 2001, Ohio residents have been able to shop for competitive rates while their local utility (AEP Ohio, Duke Energy, AES Ohio, or FirstEnergy) continues to deliver the electricity.
The "best" supplier depends on your priorities: lowest rate, contract flexibility, green energy options, or customer service quality. This guide helps you evaluate suppliers using the criteria that matter most.
How We Evaluate Suppliers
When comparing Ohio electricity suppliers, consider these key factors:
PUCO Certification
Must be licensed by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio
Competitive Rates
Rates below or competitive with Standard Service Offer
Transparent Terms
Clear contract terms with no hidden fees
Customer Service
Responsive support and good complaint resolution
Plan Variety
Options for fixed, variable, and green energy plans
How to Compare Ohio Electricity Suppliers
Step 1 - Know Your Current Rate
Find your current electricity rate on your bill (the "generation" or "supply" charge in cents per kWh). If you're on your utility's Standard Service Offer (SSO), this is your benchmark to beat.
Step 2 - Compare Total Costs
Don't just look at the rate per kWh. Some suppliers charge monthly fees that increase your effective rate. Divide any monthly fee by your average kWh usage to get the true cost per kWh.
Step 3 - Review Contract Terms
Check the contract length (6-36 months typical) and early termination fees. Shorter contracts offer flexibility but may have higher rates. Ohio law gives you 7 days to cancel any new contract without penalty.
Step 4 - Verify PUCO Certification
Only work with suppliers certified by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO). You can verify certification on the PUCO website or through Apples to Apples.
Step 5 - Check Customer Reviews
Look at PUCO complaint records and online reviews. A supplier with consistently low complaint rates and good resolution practices is likely to provide better service.
Ohio Electric Utilities
Your utility determines which suppliers serve your area. Here are Ohio's major electric distribution utilities:
Pro Tips for Ohio Electricity Shopping
- 1. Shop before your contract expires - Set a reminder 30 days before to avoid auto-renewal at potentially higher rates.
- 2. Consider 12-month contracts - They balance rate security with flexibility to shop again in a year.
- 3. Lock in before summer - Rates often increase in summer when demand is high. Shopping in spring can save money.
- 4. Use your 7-day rescission right - Ohio law lets you cancel any new contract within 7 days without penalty.
- 5. Report problems to PUCO - If you have issues with a supplier, file a complaint at puco.ohio.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find the best electricity supplier in Ohio?
Compare rates on PUCO's Apples to Apples website or use ElectricRates.org to see all certified suppliers. Look beyond just the rate - consider contract terms, early termination fees, customer reviews, and whether the company has a good track record with PUCO.
Are all Ohio electricity suppliers the same?
No, while all suppliers must be certified by PUCO, they differ in rates, contract terms, customer service quality, renewable energy options, and fees. Some specialize in low fixed rates, others in green energy plans, and some offer innovative features like smart thermostat integration.
What should I look for in an Ohio electricity supplier?
Key factors include: competitive rate per kWh, reasonable contract length (12-24 months is typical), low or no early termination fees, good customer reviews, clear billing practices, and responsive customer service. Also verify they're PUCO-certified.
Can I switch electricity suppliers in Ohio for free?
Switching itself is free in Ohio. However, if you're currently under contract with a supplier, you may face early termination fees (typically $50-$200). If you're on your utility's standard service or a month-to-month plan, there are no fees to switch.
How long does it take to switch electricity suppliers in Ohio?
The switch typically takes 1-2 billing cycles to complete. There's no interruption to your service - your utility continues delivering electricity through the same power lines. Only the generation portion of your bill changes.
Compare Ohio Electricity Rates Now
See real-time rates from PUCO-certified suppliers in your area.
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