How do I know my energy options?
Ohio’s Apples to Apples choice can sometimes be a bit overwhelming. Once you’ve dug into the information, however, it becomes much clearer. Let’s go through 3 similar plans from London, Ohio in the Ohio Edison footprint. It’ll hopefully help you make a better choice, as well.
Apples to Apples Comparison
The first part of an electricity plan that we all look at is the price. Let’s look at the Ohio Edison Electricity rates for 12 month plans in London. We can see that the three cheapest plans for the area are North American Power’s 12-month Fixed plan, Direct Energy’s Live Brighter 12 plan, and Public Power’s 12-Month Fixed Plan. The rates are usually only slightly different, in this case a difference between 6 cents, 6.3 cents and 6.5 cents, respectively. Over the course of a year that adds up. With an average consumption of 895 kwh per month, a 0.2 cent/kwh difference comes out to $1.79 difference over the course of 1 month and $21.48 over the course of your 12 month plan. Knowing this, we see that North American Power’s plan has the lowest rate and great savings!
The Freedom to Switch
Price differences are important. But if a plan is more expensive, there’s usually other perks and factors that you need to consider. The first thing I look at beyond the cheapest options is how they penalize or facilitate switching energy suppliers. The electricity rates may be amazing for North American Power’s 12-Month Fixed, but it also has a cancellation fee. This means that if you found a better plan while you’re signed up with North American Power, the cancellation fee can make it too painful to switch. On the other hand, other Ohio electricity providers do offer grace periods for switching without penalty and having that additional flexibility could save you money and headaches. Make sure you read all legal documents and information before you sign up for a plan.
Green Choices and More for your Consideration
Plans may have certain features that you may value such as being 100% renewable. Some electricity supplier companies offer these plans to help underwrite renewable energy generators and provide clean energy to the state. While none of these three plans are green, these electricity suppliers and others may offer other green alternatives.
At the same time, a company may offer other incentives. For example, Direct Energy offers a refer-a-friend bonus which rewards you if you refer friends or family that also sign up. On top of that, they also have a very large and active online community, which can offer even more feedback about their service.
Similarly, another thing to consider is how other customers have seen these companies and how they would rate them. For example, Public Power has several great reviews on their customer service, and their electricity rates.
The Right Choice for you
All in all, there are many factors to consider when choosing the right plan for you. A plan that works for your neighbor may not be right for you. To compare these plans and more, head on over to https://www.ohenergyratings.com/ and read up on your options today!