How to Choose an Electric Provider

In Ohio, it is possible for some residents to choose their own independent electric provider. Given this freedom of choice, there are important considerations when choosing your Ohio electric provider.

Remember, electric suppliers must be certified by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) before they can sell electricity to residential customers. So, if you do decide to change your electric provider, be sure that they are certified by PUCO. This tip and the following will help with your electric bill and allow you to make a more informed decision when choosing from the many Ohio electric providers.

Compare offers

The first step to choosing the right electric supplier is determining what your needs are and comparing offers to ascertain which supplier provides what you desire. For example, you might be interested in a lower price, energy generated from a specific source (such as solar or wind energy), the reputation of the supplier, bi-weekly vs. monthly bills, or other factors.

You can start the process by checking the “price to compare” section of your current electric bill and comparing this with a different supplier’s total price per kilowatt-hour.

Read (and understand!) your contract

It is common practice for an electric provider to ask customers to sign a contract. This contract might be presented in person, over the phone, or on the Internet. Regardless, it is important to fully read and understand everything in your contract to ensure you are getting the service you desire. Contracts might include information about how long you will have to purchase electricity from the supplier, how often they will bill you, or any fees associated with your plan.

Know your rights as a customer

If you decide to change electric providers, PUCO will continue to protect your rights as a customer. For a comprehensive list of your rights and for information on contacting PUCO, visit their website.

And remember, you can always contact Star Energy Partners if you have questions about your electric bill or need advice on working with Ohio electric providers.