Find the Best Electricity Rates in Ohio – Compare & Save on Energy Plans

Ohio Electricity Rates – April 2025 Overview

Residential & Commercial Rates
As of April 2025, Ohio residents are paying an average electricity rate of 16.56 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), which is approximately 2.6% below the national average of 17.01 cents/kWh. For commercial customers, the average rate is 10.93 cents per kWh, which is 10.6% lower than the U.S. average commercial rate of 12.22 cents per kWh.

Types of Electricity Plans in Ohio

When choosing an electricity plan in Ohio’s deregulated market, you’ll come across several types of rate structures. It’s important to review the plan’s terms, usually detailed in the Electricity Facts Label (EFL), before signing any agreement.

• Fixed-Rate Plans
  These plans offer price stability for the duration of the contract, typically 12 to 36 months. They’re ideal for predictable billing but may carry early termination fees (ETFs) if canceled early—though these don’t apply if you relocate outside your provider’s service area.

• Variable-Rate Plans
  Prices under variable-rate plans change monthly based on energy market conditions. While you might save during low-demand periods, rates can spike when demand increases. These plans don’t have long-term commitments or cancellation fees.

• Prepaid & No-Deposit Options
  Some suppliers may require a deposit based on your credit history. If you want to avoid upfront costs, look for no-deposit or prepaid energy plans. With prepaid options, you pay in advance and reload as needed, giving you more control over your usage and expenses.

• Green Energy Plans
  These eco-friendly options are sourced from renewables like wind, solar, or hydro. Ohio residents can access competitive pricing while supporting sustainable energy generation.

Ohio’s Energy Market Structure

Ohio’s deregulated energy market separates energy suppliers from utility companies:

• Energy Suppliers
  These are private companies that set your electricity rate and manage billing. Customers can choose from multiple suppliers such as:

  • Direct Energy

  • Constellation Energy

  • Discount Power

• Utility Companies
  Utilities handle the physical delivery of electricity, maintain infrastructure, and manage outages. You can’t choose your utility—it’s assigned based on your address. Major utility providers in Ohio include:

  • AES Ohio (formerly Dayton Power & Light)

  • AEP Ohio

  • Duke Energy

  • FirstEnergy companies (Ohio Edison, Toledo Edison, The Illuminating Company)

Price to Compare (PTC) in Ohio

If customers don’t select a supplier, they’re automatically enrolled in the standard utility plan called the Price to Compare (PTC). Below are current PTCs from major Ohio utilities, valid as of April 2025:

Note: These prices are current as of publication but may change.

Ohio’s Average Monthly Electric Bill

On average, Ohio households consume around 874 kWh per month, leading to a monthly electric bill of roughly $144.73. This is slightly below the U.S. average of $145.44/month, thanks to Ohio’s relatively lower rates.

About Energy Deregulation in Ohio

Since deregulation began in 2001, Ohio residents and businesses have had the ability to choose their electricity providers, separating energy supply from utility delivery. The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) oversees this structure to ensure transparency and fair pricing.

Consumers can often lock in better rates by choosing fixed-rate plans during off-peak seasons like spring or fall, when energy demand is lower.

How to Find an Electricity Plan

Choose Energy is a comparison platform that helps Ohio consumers evaluate and select electricity plans. Here’s how it works:

1. Enter Your ZIP Code – View available rates and plans tailored to your location.

2. Compare & Select – Browse plans by price, term length, or provider and enroll online.

3. Switch Easily – Your new supplier coordinates the changeover with no disruption in service.

FAQs – Ohio Electricity

What’s a good price per kWh in Ohio?
The lowest rate currently available on Choose Energy’s platform is around 6.4 cents per kWh, significantly lower than the state average. Prices vary daily based on the market and your location.

How can I reduce my electric bill?
Use energy-efficient appliances, maintain HVAC systems, unplug unused electronics, and switch to LED bulbs. Also, compare and switch to a lower-rate supplier.

Do I need to pay a deposit?
It depends on your credit profile. If your score is low, suppliers might ask for a deposit. Look for no-deposit or prepaid plans if you prefer to avoid this.

What’s a smart meter?
A smart meter records and transmits real-time energy usage to your utility company, eliminating manual readings. These devices offer more precise billing and help track your consumption habits.