Compare Utility Providers in Columbus, OH

Top 40 Electric Providers in Columbus

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Top 30 Natural Gas Providers in Columbus

See Top Plans In Your Area

Top 9 Internet Providers in Columbus

*Not all internet providers and speeds available in all areas. **2 Gbps speed available in select markets.

Solar Providers in Columbus

Water & Sewage Providers in Columbus

Top 25 Trash and Recycling Providers in Columbus

Utilities Summary for Columbus, OH

Electric Companies:	40
Natural Gas Companies:	30
Water & Sewage Providers:	2
Garbage, Trash & Recycling Providers:	25
Municipal Electricity:	Yes

The New Resident’s Guide to Columbus Utilities

Moving to Columbus comes with a few surprises, specifically when it comes to your utilities. Unlike most cities with a single power company and a standard trash day, Columbus has a unique “dual-grid” electric system, a rotating color-coded trash schedule, and specific water hardness levels you need to know about.

As you settle into your new home, getting your utilities set up smoothly will help you focus on exploring the Short North Arts District, cheering at Ohio Stadium, or discovering the city’s amazing food scene. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about electricity, gas, water, trash, and internet services, including how to navigate Ohio’s unique energy choice programs and score the best deals.

The Columbus Relocation Roadmap

Use this “Quick Start” timeline to avoid service gaps and reduce the stress of moving.

Timeframe	Action Item	Critical Detail / Local Insight
4 Weeks Out	Audit Lease for Sub-Metering	Check your lease for “Nationwide Energy Partners” (NEP) or “American Power & Light” (APL). If your apartment uses these sub-metering services, you cannot shop for your own electric provider.
3 Weeks Out	Determine Electric Grid	Check the Division of Power Service Map. If you are in the “City Power” zone, you must call 614-645-7360 to set up municipal service. If not, you are in AEP Ohio territory.
2 Weeks Out	Schedule Internet	Moving to German Village or Victorian Village? Verify installation early. Historic brick streets and preservation rules often delay fiber optic line burial.
1 Week Out	Water & Trash	Call 614-645-8276 to transfer water service. Download the PickUp CBUS app immediately to identify your trash “Color Zone.”
Move-In Day	Find the Valve	Older homes in areas like Clintonville often have original plumbing. Locate your main water shut-off valve immediately in case of leaks.
Post-Move	Verify Rates	Compare your first electric bill against the “Price to Compare” to ensure you haven’t been placed on a variable rate holdover from the previous resident.

Electricity: Powering Columbus

The most confusing part of Columbus utilities is that your neighbor across the street might have a different power company than you. Columbus is one of the few U.S. cities with two distinct electric distribution grids.

The Infrastructure: A Tale of Two Grids

While most of Ohio is solidly AEP territory, Columbus operates one of the oldest municipal power divisions in the country. You need to know which one serves your home.

Feature	City of Columbus Division of Power (DOP)	AEP Ohio (American Electric Power)
Type	Municipal Utility (Public/Non-Profit)	Investor-Owned Utility (Private/For-Profit)
Service Area	Patchwork: Downtown, Airport, specific residential islands.	Regional: Covers the vast majority of Central Ohio and suburbs.
Energy Choice	Restricted: Generally, DOP customers must use the city as their supplier.	Open: Customers can choose any PUCO-certified supplier or stay on the Standard Service Offer.
Outage Reporting	Call 614-645-7627 or use the City Portal.	Use the AEP Ohio Outage Map.
Streetlights	Maintains streetlights in its territory (often wooden poles).	Maintains streetlights in its territory (often metal/concrete).

The “Price to Compare” and Deregulation

For AEP Ohio customers, the “Price to Compare” (PTC) is the most critical metric. This is the benchmark rate you pay if you do nothing.

• The Mechanism: The PTC changes periodically (usually June 1st) based on auctions. If a retail supplier offers a rate lower than the PTC, you save money. If it is higher, you lose money.
• The Warning: Beware of “Variable Rate” plans. These often start low but can skyrocket after 1-3 months. Always look for “Fixed Rate” plans with terms of 12 months or longer to ensure stability through the hot Columbus summers and freezing winters. Learn more about Fixed Rates vs. Variable Rates
• Check Rates: You can compare official supplier offers at Energy Choice Ohio.

Best 5 Electric Suppliers in Columbus

1. Energy Harbor – 4.8 / 5.0

Best Overall Value & Stability

Headquartered in Akron, Ohio, Energy Harbor is a major power generator and retailer that operates the Davis-Besse and Perry nuclear power plants. Unlike smaller “paper” suppliers, they own the reliable, carbon-free generation assets that power the grid, providing them with a level of financial stability and operational security that few competitors can match.

Why They Rank Here: Energy Harbor earns our top spot by scoring highest in “Price & Value” and “Fees & Fine Print.” In late 2025, their “Safe Harbor” fixed-rate plans (typically ranging from 9.99¢ to 10.69¢ per kWh) consistently undercut the utility Price to Compare while avoiding the “gotcha” fees found in other contracts. They are one of the few major providers that frequently offer plans with $0 Early Termination Fees, giving you the flexibility to switch if rates drop in the future without penalty.

What People in Columbus Are Saying: Local sentiment on platforms like Reddit is overwhelmingly positive regarding Energy Harbor’s reliability. Residents frequently describe the service as “set it and forget it,” praising the seamless billing integration with AEP Ohio and the absence of hidden monthly charges. Some users note that renewal notices look like standard mail, so it is important to mark your calendar when your contract ends.

Best For: Homeowners who want a safe, stable fixed rate without being locked into a restrictive contract.

2. IGS Energy – 4.6 / 5.0

Best for Eco-Conscious Consumers

Based locally in Dublin, Ohio, IGS Energy is one of the nation’s largest independent energy suppliers and a fixture in the Central Ohio community. They have pivoted their business model to focus heavily on sustainability, aiming to be a net-zero company by 2040 while supporting local causes like the Columbus Blue Jackets and various charities.

Why They Rank Here: IGS Energy secures the second position due to excellent scores in “Plan Breadth” and “Independent Trust Signals.” They offer genuine green energy products at competitive rates (approx. 9.69¢ per kWh for 12 months), allowing residents to power their homes with renewable sources without a massive price premium. They maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and offer diverse contract terms ranging from 12 to 36 months, providing valuable long-term inflation protection.

What People in Columbus Are Saying: Customers appreciate the modern digital experience and the legitimacy of IGS’s green energy claims. However, there is mixed sentiment regarding their direct sales channels; while the service itself is highly rated, many residents recommend signing up online to avoid the pressure of their door-to-door sales teams.

Best For: Environmentally conscious residents who want to support a local business and lower their carbon footprint.

3. AEP Energy – 4.5 / 5.0

Most Trusted Brand

AEP Energy is the competitive retail affiliate of American Electric Power, the same parent company as your utility, AEP Ohio. They leverage the massive resources and institutional knowledge of one of the largest energy companies in the U.S. to provide a “utility-grade” supply experience with a focus on simplicity and reliability.

Why They Rank Here: AEP Energy scores exceptionally well in “Reliability & Complaints” and “Trust.” For consumers wary of third-party suppliers, AEP Energy offers a safe harbor with fair, transparent pricing (often around 9.80¢ – 10.20¢ per kWh) and typically no early termination fees. Their billing is seamless, appearing as a standard line item on your existing utility bill, which minimizes confusion and administrative hassle.

What People in Columbus Are Saying: The prevailing sentiment is one of trust and convenience. Many users choose AEP Energy simply because they recognize the brand and want to avoid the risk of “fly-by-night” providers. Reviews highlight the hassle-free enrollment process, though some customers occasionally confuse the supplier arm with the regulated utility[].

Best For: First-time switchers and risk-averse shoppers who want a familiar brand name.

4. Constellation 4.3 / 5.0

Best Customer Service Experience

Constellation is a Fortune 200 company and the largest producer of carbon-free energy in the United States. They bring a high level of corporate professionalism to the residential market, offering sophisticated account management tools and bundling options that include smart home technology and HVAC protection plans.

Why They Rank Here: Constellation ranks in the top tier thanks to strong “Independent Trust Signals,” including perennial high performance in J.D. Power customer satisfaction studies. While their rates (approx. 11.39¢ per kWh) can be slightly higher than the deep-discount leaders, they justify the premium with reliable 36-month fixed-rate contracts that protect against long-term rate hikes and a 90-day satisfaction guarantee.

What People in Columbus Are Saying: Reviews frequently cite Constellation’s professional customer support and user-friendly mobile app as key differentiators. However, some price-sensitive users note that renewal offers can be higher than new customer rates, suggesting that it pays to call and negotiate when your contract expires.

Best For: Households that prioritize premium customer support and want to bundle energy with smart home products.

5. Public Power – 4.1 / 5.0

Best Rates for High Usage

Public Power is a value-focused electricity supplier that competes aggressively on price. They are often the choice for budget-conscious consumers who are willing to manage their plan details closely to secure the lowest possible cost per kilowatt-hour.

Why They Rank Here: Public Power makes the Top 5 specifically for their performance in the “Price & Value” category for larger homes. They frequently offer some of the lowest listed rates on the market (e.g., 8.09¢ – 9.19¢ per kWh), significantly below the utility default. However, their score is impacted by “Fees & Fine Print” because these low rates often come with a monthly service fee (approx. $9.95), which provides great value for high usage but less value for apartments.

What People in Columbus Are Saying: Customer sentiment is polarized based on usage. Owners of large homes and EVs often report saving hundreds of dollars a year and leave glowing reviews. Conversely, residents in smaller apartments who didn’t notice the monthly fee in the fine print often report dissatisfaction, highlighting the importance of matching the plan to your usage profile.

Best For: Large families or high-consumption households (using over 1,200 kWh/month) where the low rate outweighs the monthly fee.

Why Trust Our Rankings

Our ratings are based on a rigorous, data-driven methodology designed to protect Ohio consumers from the “shadow market” of predatory variable rates. We analyze real-time market data from the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) and the Energy Choice Ohio marketplace to verify active rates, fees, and contract terms.

Unlike simple price comparison tables, our scoring system weighs Price & Value (35%) and Reliability (20%) most heavily, ensuring that the providers we recommend are not just cheap, but also financially stable and transparent. We also factor in verified customer sentiment from local discussion boards to capture the real-world experience of Columbus residents. Learn more about our full methodology for ranking electric suppliers

See our full list of Best Electric Suppliers in Ohio Rankings

Assistance Programs

If you are struggling with bills, Columbus offers several specific programs:

• PIPP Plus (Percentage of Income Payment Plan): A vital program that allows eligible Ohioans to pay 6% of their monthly household income toward their electric bill (and 6% for gas), making costs predictable.
• HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program): A federally funded one-time benefit applied directly to your utility bill to help with heating costs.
• Neighbor-to-Neighbor Program: Administered by the Dollar Energy Fund, this AEP-specific program provides grants to customers who are facing temporary financial hardships and risk disconnection.

Rebates & Savings

• Smart Thermostat Marketplace: AEP Ohio customers can access the AEP Online Marketplace to receive instant discounts (often $75 off) on smart thermostats like Nest or Ecobee.
• Power Rewards: By enrolling your smart thermostat in the Power Rewards program, you can earn bill credits for allowing slight temperature adjustments during peak demand days.

How to Setup Electricity

• AEP Ohio Customers: Visit aepohio.com or call 1-800-672-2231. Call at least one week in advance.
• Division of Power Customers: Check the interactive service map to confirm eligibility, then call 614-645-7360 to apply.

Natural Gas: Heating the Home

While electricity powers the lights, natural gas heats most Columbus homes. Because winter bills can be substantial, understanding the market structure here is critical.

The Standard Choice Offer (SCO) vs. Choice

The primary distributor is Columbia Gas of Ohio. They deliver the gas and maintain the pipelines, but you have options on who you buy the actual gas from.

• The Default (SCO): If you do nothing, you are placed on the Standard Choice Offer (SCO).
  • How it works: The rate is set by a monthly auction. The price fluctuates every month based on the NYMEX market price of natural gas.
  • The Risk: While often competitive, the SCO is variable. In winter months (January/February), if global gas prices spike, your rate spikes exactly when you are using the most gas.
• The Alternative (Choice): You can shop for a “Retail Natural Gas Provider.”
  • The Strategy: Many residents choose a Fixed-Rate Plan from a third-party supplier. This acts as “insurance” against volatility, locking in your rate for 12 or 24 months so you have a predictable bill regardless of market spikes.

Rebates & Savings

• WarmChoice®: This program provides free home weatherization (attic insulation, wall insulation, and air sealing) to income-eligible customers (up to 200% of federal poverty guidelines).
• Efficiency Rebates: Columbia Gas offers rebates for installing high-efficiency furnaces and tankless water heaters. Check their efficiency page for current offers.

How to Setup Natural Gas

• Start Service: Call 1-800-344-4077 or apply online at columbiagasohio.com.
• Safety Check: If gas was previously disconnected, Columbia Gas may require an in-home safety inspection of your furnace and appliances before turning service back on.

Water: Quality, Hardness, & Safety

Columbus water is safe to drink, but it has distinct characteristics due to the region’s limestone geology.

The Hardness Reality

Water hardness varies slightly depending on which of the three treatment plants serves your neighborhood.

Treatment Plant	Water Source	Service Area (General)	Hardness Level
Dublin Road	Scioto River (Surface)	Downtown, West Columbus, Southwest	~120 ppm (7 grains/gal)
Hap Cremean	Hoover Reservoir (Surface)	North Columbus, OSU, Westerville	~120 ppm (7 grains/gal)
Parsons Avenue	Groundwater Wells	Southeast Columbus, German Village	~120 ppm (7 grains/gal)

Lead Service Lines and Safety

Many older neighborhoods (like Victorian Village or Olde Towne East) may still have lead service lines connecting the house to the street.

• The Resource: Use the City of Columbus Lead Service Line Map to check your specific address.
• The Solution: If you have a lead line, the city advises flushing your cold water tap for 30 seconds to 3 minutes if the water has been sitting for more than 6 hours to reduce exposure.

Rebates & Savings

• Rain Barrel Rebate: Through the GreenSpot Community Backyards program, eligible Franklin County residents can receive a $50 rebate on a rain barrel to help conserve water and reduce runoff.

How to Setup Water

• Call: 614-645-8276 (Weekdays 7:00 am – 6:00 pm).
• Renters: You cannot open a water account in your own name. You must sign a Tenant Billing Agreement with your landlord, which directs the bill to you while the account remains in the property owner’s name.

Trash & Recycling: The “Refuse Revolution”

Columbus does not use a fixed “every Tuesday” trash schedule. Instead, the city uses a Rotating Color System that shifts after every holiday.

1. The Color-Coded Rotation

• The Logic: Your collection day rotates forward by one day after every observed holiday.
• The Colors: The city assigns your neighborhood a color: Navy, Pink, Ruby, Gold, or Gray. If you are “Ruby,” you follow the Ruby calendar.
• The Tool: Download the PickUp CBUS app immediately. It sends push notifications so you never miss the rotating day.

2. Bulk Pickup and “The Scrappers”

• Bulk Rules: You cannot leave furniture on the curb without an appointment. You must schedule “Bulk Pickup” via the 311 portal or by calling 614-645-3111.
• Local Insight: In many neighborhoods, if you put metal items (old grills, appliances) on the curb, independent “scrappers” will likely pick them up within hours, often before the city arrives. This is a normal part of the local ecosystem.

3. Recycling “Right”

Columbus uses single-stream recycling (blue carts), but you must avoid “The Big Three” contaminants:

1. Plastic Bags: They jam the sorting machines. Take them to Kroger or Giant Eagle.
2. Garden Hoses: These tangle in the equipment.
3. Styrofoam: Do not put this in the blue bin.

How to Setup Trash

• Standard Service: Trash service is usually automatic when you set up your water bill.
• Need Bins? If your home is missing a 90-gallon trash container or a blue recycling cart, call 614-645-3111 to request a delivery.

Living Green: Waste

• Com-Til: Columbus turns yard waste into Com-Til, a nutrient-rich compost. You can drop off yard waste for free at the facility on Jackson Pike.
• SWACO: Use SWACO drop-off centers for items that can’t go in the blue bin, like batteries and electronics.

Internet: Neighborhood Specifics

Most of Columbus is well-connected, but the infrastructure varies by neighborhood age.

Provider	Infrastructure	Top Speed (Download/Upload)	Availability Notes
Spectrum	Hybrid Fiber-Coaxial (Cable)	1 Gbps / 35 Mbps	Ubiquitous (94% coverage). Good for download, slower upload.
AT&T Fiber	Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH)	5 Gbps / 5 Gbps	Available in ~36-40% of the city (mostly new suburbs and retrofitted dense zones). Best for WFH.
Breezeline	Hybrid Fiber-Coaxial	1 Gbps / 50 Mbps	Formerly WOW!. Strong presence in suburbs like Dublin and Westerville. Mixed customer service reviews.
T-Mobile 5G	Fixed Wireless (Cellular)	100-300 Mbps	Excellent for renters in historic buildings where drilling for cable is prohibited.

Neighborhood Insight: In historic districts like German Village, the charming brick streets often prevent new fiber lines from being laid easily. Residents here are often limited to Spectrum cable or 5G home internet solutions.

How to Setup Internet

• Check Availability: Use the FCC Broadband Map with your exact address, don’t assume fiber is available just because the neighborhood has it.
• Lead Time: Schedule installation at least 2 weeks before moving, especially if you work from home.

Columbus Internet Connectivity

Fastest Internet Providers in Columbus

Columbus Drinking Water Quality Information

Clean drinking water is essential for maintaining good health and overall well-being. Safe, contaminant-free water helps prevent the spread of diseases, supports proper hydration, and ensures the body's vital functions operate smoothly.