Written By: David Cosseboom | Updated On: December 16th, 2025
Key Takeaways
- Constellation, Energy Harbor, and Frontier Utilities lead the pack for value, stability, and overall customer satisfaction in Ohio.
- If you want simple, worry-free fixed rates, Public Power and APG&E are strong choices, while Clearview Energy is great for affordable 100% renewable power.
- Deal-hunters may like Major Energy or Santanna Energy Services, but renewal terms require active monitoring to avoid price jumps.
- Your utility (AEP Ohio, AES Ohio, Duke, or FirstEnergy companies) still manages outages and delivery, what really matters is the supply rate, fees, and contract terms you choose.
Shopping for an electric supplier in Ohio can feel overwhelming, especially with dozens of options, promo rates, fine-print fees, and contract terms that all look similar at a glance. The good news is that Ohio’s deregulated electricity market gives you the freedom to choose a plan that fits your budget, lifestyle, and preferences, whether you want the lowest fixed rate, cleaner energy, better customer service, or simple “set-it-and-forget-it” billing. To help you cut through the noise, we evaluated each supplier using real customer feedback, pricing competitiveness, BBB ratings, plan transparency, and fee structures. Below, you’ll find our top picks and who each provider is best suited for, so you can switch with confidence and avoid any surprises on your monthly bill.
Top 10 Electric Suppliers in Ohio (2025)
#1 Energy Harbor
4.8/5
Best Overall Value & Flexibility
- Rates From 9.69¢ /kWh
- Lock in Rates for 9-20 Months
Energy Harbor stands as the benchmark for stability in the Ohio market. Headquartered in Akron, they are not just a retailer but a major generator, operating a fleet of carbon-free nuclear plants that powers a significant portion of the PJM grid. This vertical integration allows them to offer fixed-rate plans that are insulated from the fossil fuel volatility affecting other suppliers. Their “Safe Harbor” brand has become synonymous with transparency, avoiding the complex tiered pricing that confuses many consumers.
Beyond generation, Energy Harbor is deeply embedded in the Ohio community. They are a primary partner for many municipal aggregation programs, demonstrating that local governments trust them to treat constituents fairly. Their corporate social responsibility initiatives focus on STEM education and local food bank support in Northeast Ohio, reinforcing their status as a “hometown” provider rather than an out-of-state speculator.
What Ohio customers are saying: Ohio residents on Reddit (r/Ohio, r/Cleveland) frequently recommend Energy Harbor as the “no-nonsense” option. The absence of an early termination fee is universally praised as a consumer-first feature. Negative sentiment is sparse and usually relates to the timing of utility switching (a PUCO delay) rather than the company’s own billing practices.
Best For: Renters who may need to move unexpectedly (due to the $0 ETF) and homeowners seeking a “set it and forget it” fixed rate without hidden fees.
Detailed Scoring Analysis
| Criterion | Score | Analysis |
| Price (35%) | 4.8 | Consistently competitive with no hidden monthly fees to distort the effective rate. |
| Fees (15%) | 5.0 | The $0 ETF is the gold standard for consumer freedom. |
| Reliability (20%) | 4.7 | BBB Accredited with an A+ rating. Complaint volume is low relative to their massive customer base. |
| Plan Breadth (10%) | 4.5 | Strong mix of 12, 24, and 36-month options, plus specific carbon-free plans. |
| Trust (10%) | 5.0 | As a major nuclear generator and Vistra subsidiary, they have immense operational stability. |
| Sentiment (10%) | 4.8 | “Safe bet” status on Reddit; users praise the lack of cancellation fees. |
#2 Constellation
4.7/5
Most Reliable Provider
- Rates From 10.99¢ /kWh
- 90 Day Satisfaction Guarantee
- Lock in Rates for 3-36 Months
Constellation is a subsidiary of Exelon, the nation’s largest utility company, bringing an institutional level of reliability to the Ohio market. They serve over 2 million customers and are the top producer of carbon-free energy in the U.S. Their scale allows them to offer robust digital tools, including an award-winning app and detailed usage analytics that help homeowners manage their consumption.
They distinguish themselves through philanthropy and community stability. In 2025, they were recognized for their “Community Champions” program, which provides grants to local environmental and educational causes in Ohio. Unlike smaller providers that churn through support staff, Constellation maintains a professional, U.S.-based customer service team that consistently ranks at the top of JD Power studies.
What Ohio customers are saying: Sentiment is overwhelmingly positive regarding their professionalism. Reviews on ConsumerAffairs and Google highlight that Constellation “doesn’t play games” with rates. While some Reddit users note they aren’t the cheapest, they are often cited as the alternative to switch to after being burned by a predatory supplier.
Best For: Homeowners who value long-term stability (up to 36-month plans) and those who want a premium customer service experience.
Detailed Scoring Analysis
| Criterion | Score | Analysis |
| Price (35%) | 4.4 | Slightly higher per-kWh rate, but pays for superior service and stability. |
| Fees (15%) | 4.8 | $25 ETF is negligible; includes a 90-day risk-free guarantee. |
| Reliability (20%) | 5.0 | Provider Score of 4.82/5; industry leader in billing accuracy and support. |
| Plan Breadth (10%) | 4.8 | Offers wide range of terms (6-36 months) and AC protection bundles. |
| Trust (10%) | 5.0 | A+ BBB rating; backed by Exelon’s massive financial resources. |
| Sentiment (10%) | 4.5 | High praise for professionalism; few complaints about “bait and switch.” |
#3 Public Power
4.2/5
Best for High Usage Homes
- Rates From 8.39¢ /kWh
- Lock in Rates for 12-20 Months
Public Power operates as a niche specialist within the Crius Energy family of brands. They differentiate themselves by targeting high-usage households with “buy-down” style plans. These plans feature a lower per-kWh rate combined with a monthly subscription fee, a structure that rewards energy-heavy homes (like those with EVs or electric heat) while penalizing efficient apartments.
The company has a history of focusing on simplicity and loyalty rewards, offering programs like “Power Perks” that provide cash back on shopping. While they lack the massive generation assets of Energy Harbor or Constellation, they have carved out a loyal following among suburban homeowners with larger footprints.
What Ohio customers are saying: Online discussions are mixed. Savvy users on r/Ohio point out the math: “If you use a lot of power, the $15 fee is worth the lower rate.” However, negative reviews often come from customers who didn’t read the EFL and were surprised by the monthly charge on a low-usage month.
Best For: Large families, owners of older homes with electric heat, and EV owners who consume more than 1,500 kWh per month.
Detailed Scoring Analyisis
| Criterion | Score | Analysis |
| Price (35%) | 4.3 | Exceptional value for usage >1,500 kWh/mo; poor value for low usage. |
| Fees (15%) | 4.0 | $0 ETF is excellent, but the $14.95 monthly fee drags down the score for average users. |
| Reliability (20%) | 4.2 | BBB Accredited; solid track record but some confusion over fee structures. |
| Plan Breadth (10%) | 4.0 | Good variety of term lengths (6-24 months). |
| Trust (10%) | 4.0 | Established mid-sized player; stable but less transparent than Tier 1. |
| Sentiment (10%) | 4.0 | Polarized: High users love the savings; low users complain about high bills. |
#4 Frontier Utilities
4.1/5
Best Online Experience
- Rates From 11.6¢ /kWh
- Lock in Rates for 12 Months
Frontier Utilities positions itself as a digital-first, low-cost provider. Owned by NextEra Energy (a renewable energy giant), they leverage sophisticated hedging to offer very aggressive short-term rates. They are known for their “Budget Saver” plans which appeal to cost-conscious consumers looking for immediate relief from high utility PTCs.
Their digital interface is robust, allowing for easy self-service, which aligns with their low-overhead business model. They also engage in community support, partnering with organizations like the Boy Scouts of America and Habitat for Humanity, donating a portion of proceeds from specific plans.
What Ohio customers are saying: Reddit users generally view Frontier as a “middle of the road” option, safe enough to use, but requiring vigilance regarding renewal notices. Reviews mention that while the rates are good, customer service hold times can be long.
Best For: Tech-savvy consumers who want a quick, online-only relationship with their energy provider.
Detailed Scoring Analysis
| Criterion | Score | Analysis |
| Price (35%) | 4.0 | consistently competitive, though rarely the absolute floor. |
| Fees (15%) | 4.2 | Transparent terms; lack of monthly fees on key plans is a plus. |
| Reliability (20%) | 4.0 | 7-time BBB Award winner, but recent mixed reviews on billing cycles. |
| Plan Breadth (10%) | 4.0 | Focuses on 12-24 month terms; fewer “green” specific options than competitors. |
| Trust (10%) | 4.5 | Backing by NextEra provides significant financial security. |
| Sentiment (10%) | 3.8 | Mixed. Some praise easy signup; others cite difficulty reaching human support. |
#5 Direct Energy
4.0/5
Best for Smart Home Bundles
- Rates From 9.69¢ /kWh
- Lock in Rates for 12-36 Months
Direct Energy is a massive brand, a subsidiary of NRG, known for bundling electricity with smart home technology. They are the “lifestyle” brand of electricity, frequently offering plans that include free Amazon Echo devices, Nest thermostats, or “Free Weekends.”
While their marketing is slick and their “Live Brighter” campaign is ubiquitous, their rates often carry a “convenience premium.” They are heavily involved in charitable giving, specifically through a long-standing partnership with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, raising millions for local pediatric care.
What Ohio customers are saying: Sentiment is divided. Customers love the app and the free gadgets but frequently complain on Reddit about aggressive sales reps at retail stores (like Walmart) or their doorstep. “Live Brighter” plans are seen as stable but not the cheapest.
Best For: Consumers who want “perks” with their power and are willing to pay a slightly higher rate for brand-name reliability and smart devices.
Detailed Scoring Analysis
| Criterion | Score | Analysis |
| Price (35%) | 3.5 | Higher rates reflect the cost of “free” perks and heavy marketing. |
| Fees (15%) | 4.5 | $0 ETF options are consumer-friendly. |
| Reliability (20%) | 4.5 | BBB Accredited (A+); huge support infrastructure.18 |
| Plan Breadth (10%) | 5.0 | Excellent variety: Green, Smart Home bundles, and HVAC protection. |
| Trust (10%) | 4.5 | Major corporate backing; reliable but aggressive sales tactics. |
| Sentiment (10%) | 3.5 | Users dislike the door-to-door sales pressure; happy with the actual service. |
#6 Clearview Energy
3.7/5
Best for Green Energy
- Rates From 9.3¢ /kWh
- Lock in Rates for 6-24 Months
Clearview markets itself strictly on environmental stewardship. They are 100% green-focused, sourcing power from wind, solar, and hydro. Their branding appeals to the eco-conscious consumer who wants to reduce their carbon footprint.
However, this mission comes at a cost. Clearview’s plans often carry higher premiums and stricter contract terms. They are active in community sustainability, partnering with the Arbor Day Foundation and local environmental groups to plant trees, aligning their corporate actions with their product.
What Ohio customers are saying: The “green” mission is appreciated, but the financial sentiment is negative. Reddit users and BBB complaints frequently mention “price gouging” after the initial fixed term expires, with rates doubling if the customer forgets to renew.
Best For: Eco-conscious homeowners who are diligent about renewing contracts to avoid variable rate rollovers.
#7 APG&E
3.6/5
Best for Short-Term Savings
- Rates From 7.68¢ /kWh
- Lock in Rates for 11-36 Months
APG&E is an aggressive player known for short-term “teaser” rates. They often appear at the top of comparison charts with 3-month offers that undercut the market significantly. This strategy is designed to acquire customers who are price-sensitive.
While they boast awards for employee satisfaction and support, their customer acquisition model relies heavily on outbound calling and aggressive sales, which tarnishes their reputation among privacy-focused consumers.
What Ohio customers are saying: “Spam” is the most common word associated with APG&E on Reddit. Users report relentless phone calls and difficulty cancelling. The consensus is that the savings are real, but the hassle is significant.
Best For: Hyper-active shoppers who set calendar reminders and are willing to switch providers every few months to chase the absolute floor price.
#8 Major Energy
3.5/5
Best for Flexible Terms
- Rates From 10.39¢ /kWh
- Lock in Rates for 12 Months
Major Energy is a standard retailer that often flies under the radar. They offer basic fixed-rate plans and have recently moved to address customer service issues by resolving PUCO investigations. They position themselves as a simple alternative to the utility, often bundling gas and electric.
Their corporate responsibility includes partnerships with United Way and volunteer hours for employees, attempting to build a community-focused brand image.
What Ohio customers are saying: Sentiment is generally poor due to aggressive sales and billing disputes. Reviews mention rates doubling after contracts expire and difficulties reaching support to resolve errors.
Best For: Consumers who want a backup option to Energy Harbor with similar “no ETF” flexibility.
#9 Santanna Energy Services
3.2/5
Best for Flat-Bill Budgeting
- Rates From 10.4¢ /kWh
- 90 Day Satisfaction Guarantee
- Lock in Rates for 12 Months
Santanna Energy Services promotes “Unlimited Energy” plans, a flat monthly bill regardless of usage. While this sounds attractive for budgeting, the math rarely works in the consumer’s favor unless usage is astronomically high.
The company faces significant headwinds regarding its sales practices. They rely heavily on door-to-door sales, leading to numerous complaints about “slamming” (switching customers without consent) and misleading agents posing as utility workers.
What Ohio customers are saying: “Predatory” and “Deceitful” are frequently used words. Reddit threads warn residents not to open their doors to Santanna reps, citing instances where agents demanded to see bills to “verify” accounts.
Best For: Consumers with extreme budget anxiety who prioritize a flat monthly cost over actual savings.
#10 Think Energy!
3.1/5
Best for Community Solar Access
- Rates From 11.2¢ /kWh
- Lock in Rates for 12-36 Months
Think Energy has pivoted to a business model that relies heavily on Multi-Level Marketing (MLM) or “network marketing.” They encourage customers to become “Energy Advisors” and recruit friends and family to sign up for community solar or electricity plans.
While the underlying service is legitimate, the sales channel creates social friction. The focus is often on recruitment rather than providing the lowest rate, leading to a confusing value proposition for the end user.
What Ohio customers are saying: Reddit discussions in r/antiMLM and local subs label Think Energy as a “pyramid scheme” or “MLM,” advising users to avoid the high-pressure sales tactics used by acquaintances recruiting for the company.
Best For: Consumers interested in supporting community solar who don’t mind navigating a network marketing sales process.
Honorable Mentions
- Think Energy: Clean-energy-forward marketing and active Ohio offers, but very mixed recent review sentiment pulled the score just below the line this cycle. If you like their approach, compare their current rate against your utility’s Price-to-Compare and set a renewal reminder.
- American Power & Gas: Shows A+ BBB at the corporate level, but we found limited Ohio-specific momentum versus peers in our spot-checks; worth checking out if promo rates improve.
How we built this ranking (methodology)
- Framework & weights: Price & Value (35%), Customer Experience (25%) (BBB rating/complaint patterns, Ohio-specific review sites, Reddit/local forums), Plan Options (15%), Fees & Fine Print (15%) (ETF, monthly fees, renewal language), and Transparency & Stability (10%) (BBB standing, certifications, clear environmental claims).
- Sources & sample size (this Ohio run): 28 public sources reviewed and ~120 Ohio-specific reviews/forum posts read between Aug–Oct 2025. Key sources included PUCO Apples-to-Apples (to benchmark pricing competitiveness on 10/28/2025), BBB business profiles/complaints pages, AES Ohio’s registered supplier list, vendor Ohio landing pages, and Ohio-focused plan/ratings aggregators.
- Pricing view: We did not lock on a single “best price”; we compared each brand’s typical fixed-rate offers (12–24 months) against each utility’s “Price to Compare” during our sample window to inform relative value. Always check Apples-to-Apples for your exact ZIP before enrolling.
- Limitations & tie-breakers: Where Ohio-specific data was thin, we weighted state-level (OH) reviews over national ones and preferred recent sentiment (≤12 months). Close scores were broken by clearer fee terms and renewal transparency.
See our full Methodology for Rating Electric Suppliers
Quick Ohio Shopping Tips
- Start with your utility’s Price-to-Compare and filter to 12–24-month fixed plans.
- Scan fees & renewals (ETF, monthly fees, and what happens at term end).
- Calendar a reminder 30–45 days before your contract ends to avoid roll-to-variable surprises (a common complaint theme across multiple brands).
FAQs About Electricity Suppliers in Ohio
How does electricity choice work in Ohio?
What is the “Price to Compare”?
Is switching suppliers safe and reliable?
Are there any fees to switch?
• ETF policies
• Monthly service fees
• Renewal terms
• Promo conditions
A plan with a rock-bottom intro rate can cost more long-term if it has hidden fees or steep renewal pricing.
Should I choose a fixed or variable rate?
Variable rates can change monthly and often rise after promos, so we recommend them only if you actively monitor the market.
What happens when my contract ends?
Can I get renewable or carbon-free energy in Ohio?
About the Author
David has been an integral part of some of the biggest utility sites on the internet, including InMyArea.com, HighSpeedInternet.com, BroadbandNow.com, and U.S. News. He brings over 15 years of experience writing about, compiling and analyzing utility data.