• Home
  • Resources

Energy Choice Ohio: Apples-To-Apples Energy Comparisons

Ohio Energy Insights: Making Informed Choices Without Compromise

Thanks to energy deregulation in Ohio, you have the opportunity to choose an energy supplier that best suits your needs. Suppliers compete for your business, resulting in better prices and programs. Tools are available to help you perform fast and effective comparison shopping. Learn how to compare Ohio energy rates and choose the right supplier for your natural gas or electric energy.

What Is Energy Choice Ohio?

Energy Choice allows customers to comparison-shop for an energy supplier. This gives customers a wider range of pricing plans and options to choose from. You can compare Ohio energy prices to find the best deal. You can also compare rate terms to find one that suits your needs.

Keep in mind, your utility company will continue to provide reliable infrastructure after you switch energy suppliers. They’ll still deliver the energy supply and perform maintenance on local poles, wires, and pipes.

Apples-To-Apples Comparisons in Ohio

The Apples-to-Apples” comparison puts electric and natural gas supplier prices side-by-side. Energy Choice Ohio curates this data from suppliers’ stated offers, so it’s important to verify the offers listed are accurate before signing a contract. The list only includes suppliers that are accepting new customers, so you can choose from any of them.

This tool shows the offers in random order, so it’s only a coincidence what appears near the top of the list. Customers have to check the list thoroughly to make sure they’ve found the best deal. This type of side-by-side comparison gives you the chance to sort through your local marketplace for a supplier that suits your needs. It allows you to make an informed decision and switch Ohio energy suppliers.

With that said, you may want to use other comparison services beyond the Apples-to-Apples generator. The information it provides is in random order and offers minimal context regarding supplier companies and contract terms. Energy experts can help you narrow down and better understand your options.

A Brief Guide to Energy Deregulation in Ohio

You have the freedom of choice to select your own energy supplier thanks to Ohio’s energy deregulation. Before deregulation, you had no choice but to use the energy utility in your area. The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) regulated services and rates. The set rates allowed the utility company to recover its expenses and earn a specific profit margin. In essence, the energy market was a government-controlled monopoly.

A Brief Guide to Energy Deregulation in Ohio

Now, customers can choose their own supplier, sparking competition throughout the market. In the meantime, PUCO works to balance energy supplier and customer interests. It does so by providing tools and resources to help customers make the best choice, such as the PUCO Apples-to-Apples comparison tool. Using this tool, you can compare Ohio electric prices and compare Ohio natural gas prices.

The PUCO tool is a great place to start when you’re thinking about switching — however, you may want to seek more information than the tool provides. Since deregulation, millions of Ohio energy consumers have switched to new supplier companies for improved prices and terms. A new electric or natural gas supplier could help you save money.

Electricity Choice in Ohio

Electric energy customers will want to compare Ohio electric rates, contract terms, and other characteristics. When you’re thinking of making a switch, it’s important to consider all the following factors:

  • Rates: The most obvious factor to consider is the listed rate. Keep in mind, however, a lot of outside influences can affect energy rates. Rates depend on season, location, generation and distribution costs, and personal energy consumption. You should always look beyond listed rates when choosing a new supplier, as many other factors are also significant.
  • Benefits: Also consider the benefits the supplier offers. Many suppliers will add value to their plans like rewards or smart home products. Choose a plan with benefits that serve you best.
  • Total cost: The total cost is the number you’ll see on your bill. You can find it by multiplying your energy rate by your consumption. The best plan for you will vary based on how much energy you consume per month.
  • Terms: The contract terms are a vital factor to consider. You may be able to choose from a fixed-rate plan or a variable-rate plan. If so, consider market fluctuations. It’s best to lock in your rates with a fixed-rate plan if you sign on while prices are low. However, if you choose a supplier while rates are high, you may want to opt for a variable-rate plan. It’s up to you — variable rate plans allow you to float with the ups and downs of the market, but you may end up paying higher prices if rates rise.
  • Reputation: Remember to consider a supplier’s reputation in your community. You should seek reviews or reach out to current customers.

Natural Gas Choice in Ohio

Those who use natural gas can compare Ohio natural gas rates, contract terms, and other factors. If you’re thinking about making a switch, consider all the factors listed above, including rates, benefits, total costs, terms, and supplier reputation. Choose a company offering competitive rates, flexible terms, and useful benefits.

You may be wondering how some suppliers can offer lower natural gas prices than others. This depends on how often the company sets its price-to-compare rates. Natural gas prices fluctuate every day, so you’ll want to find a company that alters price-to-compare rates often. Some suppliers only do so a few times each year, while others do so every month.

Why Should You Switch Your Ohio Energy Supplier?

If you have had minimal issues with your current supplier, you may not have considered switching. Even if you’re satisfied with your current energy supplier, switching can offer you many benefits. Deregulated Ohio energy serves consumer interests. Here are some of the reasons you may want to switch.

Why Should You Switch Your Ohio Energy Supplier?

1. Reduced Monthly Rates

You may be able to find a supplier that offers decreased monthly rates. Depending on how much energy you consume, this could amount to significant savings long-term. Even a minimal decrease in rates can result in savings over time. If you’ve yet to consider switching, take a look at the available rates you could be paying with a new supplier. Lower monthly energy rates could free up more of your income for other purposes.

2. Plan Term Flexibility

Some people choose to switch suppliers for different plan terms. The best plan terms for you will depend on your interests and priorities. Some customers prefer consistent rates, while others prefer market-based rates. Consider the level of risk you’re comfortable taking and your financial planning goals.

Fixed-Rate Plans

Fixed-rate plans offer improved predictability. When you have a fixed-rate plan, the rate you pay each month will not change for the duration of your contract, even if fuel prices soar. If you consume the same amount of energy from one month to the next, your bill will be predictable.

In that way, fixed-rate plans allow for more accurate financial planning, which many consumers value. If you choose a fixed-rate plan, be sure to sign your contract when prices are low. Energy experts can help you determine if prices are higher or lower than usual.

Variable-Rate Plans

On the other hand, variable-rate plans allow you to float with the market. When you sign on for a variable rate, your energy prices will fluctuate with the market. When supply prices are low, your rates will be low, but when supply prices are high, your rates will be high. If you can handle higher prices for some months, a variable-rate plan might be right for you. Energy experts can help you make this decision.

3. Incentives and Benefits

Choosing a new supplier may be the best choice for you if you use energy-saving products and solutions, such as smart appliances or programmable thermostats. Many energy companies offer benefits to customers who use such products. You might be able to switch to a supplier that offers you special benefits for reducing your carbon footprint.

4. Better Customer Service

Another reason many energy customers switch suppliers is for a better customer service experience. The deregulated market allows you to choose suppliers based on optimal customer service. You can choose a supplier with a reputation for prompt, friendly, personable, and reliable service.

5. Improved Local Economy

When you switch energy providers, you help stimulate your local economy. Local energy suppliers might offer lower rates and better customer service. Supporting one of these suppliers can help boost your local economy by fueling job opportunities.

Steps to Switching Ohio Energy Suppliers

Switching energy providers could offer you many benefits. If you’re interested in switching, here are the steps for how to switch Ohio electricity suppliers, as well as how to switch Ohio natural gas suppliers.

1. Compare Your Options

First, you’ll want to compare the available options in your area for your energy type. Compare prices, rate plans, incentives, and company reputation. Think about your personal priorities, including how much you value:

  • Predictability
  • The lowest possible rates
  • Specific incentive programs
  • Excellent customer service

A professional service can help you sort through your options and find a supplier that meets your needs.

2. Ask Questions

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, reach out to the energy suppliers you’re considering. Ask them specific questions about terms, rates, and other factors to help you make your decision.

3. Understand the Contract Terms

Before signing a contract with a supplier, make sure you read and understand all the terms of your agreement. Since contracts can be challenging to decipher, this is a great time to seek the help of an energy service expert. They’ll help you steer clear of contracts with hidden fees or other unfavorable conditions.

4. Confirm Your Choice

Your utility company will send you confirmation after you’ve chosen a supplier. Right away, make sure all the information is correct. If necessary, you can usually back out of a switch within a set amount of days.

What to Ask Ohio Energy Suppliers

When shopping for a new supplier, reach out and gather more information from your top choices. Here are some questions to ask Ohio energy suppliers before signing a contract:

  • Do you have PUCO certification? PUCO sets rules and standards for energy suppliers. Look for companies with PUCO certification.
  • What is your kilowatt-hour rate or price per cubic feet rate? Electric suppliers set rates by kilowatt-hours, while natural gas suppliers set rates by cubic feet.
  • Does your contract offer a fixed or variable rate? Depending on your preferences, you may want to seek either a fixed or variable rate contract. Make sure you know which you’re signing up for.
  • What affects your rates? If you sign on for a variable rate contract, you may want to ask what outside factors influence the supplier’s energy rates.
  • Do you charge a switching fee? Some energy suppliers might charge a fee for switching.
  • Do you charge a cancellation fee? If you choose to switch suppliers again before your contract is complete, you may have to pay an early cancellation fee.
  • What incentives do you offer? Supplier incentive programs can greatly affect how much you have to pay each month. Ask about incentive programs.
  • What happens when my contract expires? It’s important to understand what steps you’ll need to take when your contract expires.
  • How often will I receive bills? You will receive them monthly, just like you did before switching.
  • Is there a budget plan? Since energy consumers tend to use more energy during the hottest and coldest months of the year, some suppliers offer a budget plan to even out your monthly expenses. This will reduce the financial burden during high energy-consuming months. Ask your potential new supplier about budget plan options and how to use them.

Why Shop for Rates at Shipley Energy Instead of PUCO Apples-To-Apples?

While PUCO’s Apples-to-Apples tool can be a great place to start, consider Shipley Energy for comparison shopping. At Shipley Energy, we have multiple offers, including renewable energy. PUCO’s tool offers you a randomized list of rates — but we’ll help you understand your options and make an informed choice based on your usage, budget, and other priorities.

With the Apples-to-Apples tool, PUCO offers you helpful information but otherwise leaves you to fend for yourself. It can take a lot of time and research to choose the best supplier this way, and you may end up missing out on important information. At Shipley Energy, our experts will help you understand your options and secure the best rate, plan terms, and benefit programs for you.

What to Ask Ohio Energy Suppliers

Contact Shipley Energy to Switch Energy Providers

The deregulated energy market has resulted in increased competition between energy suppliers. You have the right to choose an energy supplier that best suits your unique needs and interests. Whether you’re looking for a new electricity choice or new natural gas choice in Ohio, Shipley Energy can help you make an informed decision.

We’re the experts on all things energy-related, with over 90 years of experience in the industry. We provide supply in Ohio with fair prices and excellent customer service. If you’re thinking about switching your energy provider, use our plan and price checker tool or reach out for more information. Feel free to call us at 1-800-839-1849 if you have any questions.

Contact Shipley Energy to Switch Energy Providers

test
Share this post
Related Posts