Ohio is a deregulated state, so residents have the option to choose their energy supplier. This allows them to shop for competitive energy rates, plans and contract terms.
PUCO offers an Apples to Apples comparison tool, which can be helpful for Ohio customers shopping for their next retail energy supplier. But it can be time consuming and confusing to search through the many options available.
Apples to Apples
Since energy deregulation, Ohio citizens have had the freedom to choose their own supplier. In order to help customers compare their options, the PUCO created the Apples to Apples tool. The tool is designed to give a side-by-side comparison of energy offers.
In addition to helping Ohio consumers make the best choice for their home or business, PUCO also regulates energy supplier rates and consumer rights. It can help with disputes between consumers and their suppliers and it helps resolve complaints about unfair business practices. PUCO also offers assistance for low-income households with electricity and natural gas by providing an affordable energy plan.
Besides regulating electricity and natural gas supply, the PUCO also provides services for local communities that want to form an energy aggregation program. It also reviews and approves delivery rates and standard service offer (SSO) rates for deregulated utilities. It also regulates a state-wide program called NOPEC, a governmental energy aggregation that lets residents shop together for competitive prices.
Energy Choice Ohio
Ohioans have a variety of options for their electricity and natural gas thanks to energy deregulation. In the past, utility companies set rates for services that allowed them to recover expenses and earn a set profit margin.
Now, you can choose your own Ohio electric supplier and contract for a competitive supply rate that meets your needs. You can compare Ohio electricity suppliers’ offers using PUCO’s Apples-to-Apples tool. The website also curates supplier contracts to ensure that you’re getting a complete picture of pricing.
Before committing to any contract, you’ll want to evaluate supply rates and look at contract terms and benefits programs. Our experts will help you compare offers, and find the best Ohio electric supplier for your specific needs. This way, you can make the most of ohio energy choice program. Choosing your own provider opens up a world of competitive rates, plan options and customer service. You deserve the power to choose.
PUCO’s Default Rate
In Ohio, you can shop online for a variety of energy plans and rates, including green options. You can also find plans that offer free stuff or support a charity. With so many choices, you can make an apples to apples comparison and decide which plan is best for your home or business.
PUCO is the government agency that oversees the Standard Service Offering, or Price to Compare, for your local utility and protects consumer rights. If you choose to stay with your electric utility and do not select a new supplier, you will remain enrolled in the default rate that PUCO sets each month.
Your utility company is responsible for delivering natural gas and electricity to your home or business. They maintain the power lines, meters and energy infrastructure in your neighborhood. Regardless of who you choose for your energy supply, your utility will continue to deliver your service, send you your bill and respond to any outages you have.
Renewable Energy
As Ohioans continue to debate the best path forward for our state’s energy policy, it is important to remember that renewable generation shouldn’t be an either/or proposition. While many Ohioans oppose “mandates,” others are quick to point out that our state’s existing market-based, competitive standard – the RPS – already achieves most of our clean energy goals and provides significant economic development opportunities for our communities and our businesses.
Many Ohio business owners choose to take advantage of energy choice and shop for an electricity provider that offers flexible contract terms, affordable rates and superior customer service. While every plan has its pros and cons, some plans that provide the most stability are fixed-rate plans. Fixed-rate plans ensure that your energy rate will not change throughout the contract term length. Some providers also offer green energy plans that offset the energy your home or business consumes with RECs (Renewable Energy Credits). These RECs are purchased and retired on behalf of customers who choose to buy green energy.
