Key Takeaways
- The average electricity bill in Columbus, Ohio is $107. Residents spend 7% more on average compared to other parts of the U.S.
- Columbus residents can save money on their electricity bill through Energy Choice, which is the option to chose an electricity provider outside of the default utility: AEP Ohio.
- Before switching it is important to understand some key aspects including your current electricity rate (known as the price to compare), specifics of a potential plan and related terminology.
The average Columbus, Ohio resident spends $107 per month on their electric bill. This adds up to about $2,340 per year. In terms of energy usage, this equates to 1,213 kWh of electricity per month and 14,556 kWh per year.
The average U.S. citizen spends $2,179 per year on electricity, so residents of Columbus, Ohio spend 7% more than average on their electric bill. This is also much higher than the average cost of electricity in Ohio at large, with the average Ohio resident spending $1,287 per year on electricity.
Residents of Columbus, Ohio can save money on their electric bills by taking advantage of Energy Choice and participating in programs that allow them to sell power back to the grid.
Table of Contents
Electricity Rates in Columbus Ohio
| Plan | Rate Per kWh |
|---|---|
| APG&E True Classic 12 12 Months | 6.08¢ Select |
| Tomorrow Energy 12 Month Fixed 12 Months | 6.09¢ Select |
| Public Power Electric 12 Month Fixed Rate 12 Months | 6.09¢ Select |
| APG&E True Classic 24 24 Months | 6.98¢ Select |
| Constellation 12 Month Home Power Plan 12 Months | 7.29¢ Select |
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Columbus Ohio Electricity Rates and Energy Choice
Ohio’s electric rates are lower than those of many states in the country, but Columbus residents still have the opportunity to substantially save on their electric bills. Since the early 2000s, residents and businesses in Ohio have been able to participate in Energy Choice by shopping around for a retail electricity provider with lower rates than what they are currently paying.
If you live in Columbus and are considering making the switch from AEP Ohio or another retail electricity provider, it will be to your advantage to learn about your options and how to navigate this marketplace.
Break Up With Your Electricity Provider
Shop electricity rates from leading providers and make the switch today.
What You Need to Know Before You Switch Providers
Before you decide on a provider, it is important to do your research. You must know what to look for and what tools and resources are available to help you.
Use the Compare & Switch Tool
You can use our free comparison tool at the top of the page. Simply type in your ZIP Code and select AEP Ohio (or your default utility) to view a list of some of the best providers in your area. There is no obligation to make the switch if you use the tool.
Know Your Current Electricity Rate
You can find the rate that you are currently paying for electricity on your most recent electric bill. You will want to compare this rate with the rates of retail electricity providers in your area. The rate is measured in cents per kilowatt hour (kWh) and may appear as 11.374 cents/kWh or $0.11374 cents/kWh.
Know the Features of a Plan
The specifics of each plan will vary, and you must know what to look for and what several key terms refer to. The following are some of the most important factors that you should look at when reviewing a plan:
- Fixed-rate or Variable: First and foremost, you should know whether the plan is fixed-rate or variable. A fixed-rate plan offers a rate that will not change for the entirety of your contract. Variable-rate plans offer rates that vary from month to month, usually depending on wholesale market prices. If you are considering a variable-rate plan, remember that the rate may go up or down every month without notice.
- Long or Short Contract Terms: Variable-rate contracts are generally month-to-month contracts that can be canceled at any time. Fixed-rate contract durations may last from 3 to 36 months.
- Fees to Switch: Some providers may require security deposits and initial set-up fees.
- Bonuses or Rewards Offered: Some providers may offer sign-on bonuses, discounts on energy-related products and services, and heft rewards programs.
- Renewable Electricity Options: Many providers offer partial or 100% green plans that source electricity from 100% renewable sources. You will find that rates for these plans are quite affordable often below the rate of AEP Ohio.
Once you have made the choice, you can switch through our marketplace in a few easy steps. The only real change after you have made the switch is that you will see a different rate on your electricity bill. AEP Ohio will continue to deliver your bill, keep your electric service on, and respond to any emergencies, such as power outages.