Apples to Apples Ohio: What Is It and How to Navigate

Apples to Apples Energy Choice Ohio: What It Means for You 

In Ohio’s deregulated energy market, “energy choice” gives residents the freedom to select their energy supplier. Yet most people don’t even realize that alternative energy suppliers exist when they first explore their options. That’s where the Apples to Apples tool comes in. 

Specifically designed for Ohio residents, the Apples to Apples website simplifies the process by offering a clear, side-by-side comparison of certified suppliers and what they have to offer. It’s a helpful resource that empowers you to make informed decisions about your electricity or natural gas plan—whether you’re new to the market or reevaluating your current energy plan.  

What is PUCO? 

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) is the state agency that regulates key utility services like electricity and natural gas. PUCO also manages programs like Apples to Apples/Energy Choice Ohio, which lets consumers shop for competitive energy suppliers. 

What Is Apples to Apples in Ohio? 

To facilitate informed decision-making, PUCO developed the Apples to Apples comparison tool. This online resource provides a platform where residents can compare offers from certified energy suppliers based on price and contract terms to help them make the best choice for their energy needs. 

Key Features of the Apples to Apples Ohio Tool 

The Apples to Apples tool for Ohio residents offers a ton of cool and helpful features. Here are some of the most noteworthy:  

1. You’re Only Seeing Certified Suppliers: The tool only shows suppliers and aggregators that are officially certified. This way, you’re not looking at outdated or questionable offers; you’re seeing what’s really available on the market right now.
2. It Gives You a Real-Time Price Comparison: Energy prices can change almost daily, which makes it tough to know if you’re getting the best deal. The Apples to Apples Ohio tool helps by showing the current Price to Compare—this is the rate offered by your local utility company so you can easily compare this rate side by side with offers from certified energy suppliers, who may have more competitive pricing or flexible plans. 

This makes it simple to see your options in one place, without having to visit multiple websites or spend hours researching. Whether you’re new to energy choice or just looking for a better deal, it’s a smart place to start.  

3. You Can Check Contract Details Upfront: Apples to Apples doesn’t just show prices, it also tells you how long each contract is. It also details whether there are early cancellation fees or added monthly fees, and other key terms. This helps you know what you’re really signing up for, so there are no surprises down the road.
4. It Shares Important Customer Rights Info: The Apples to Apples tool also gives you extra details about your rights as a customer like whether you’ll need to pay a deposit, how payment plans work, or what happens if you fall behind on your bill through links that lead you to more information through the supplier’s.
5. It’s Easy to Access Anytime: It’s all online through the Energy Choice Ohio website, so you can check it out whenever it’s convenient and gather all the info you need to make a smart choice!

When to Use Apples to Apples 

This tool offers a ton of helpful insights if you’re in the middle of searching and exploring your options. The best time to use this tool is when you’re moving to a new residence in Ohio and your main utility changes. The Apples to Apples tool can help you identify suppliers servicing your new location and compare their offers.  

You can also use it to review your options when your current plan is ending—but if you’re satisfied with your supplier and rate (especially if you’re one of our customers!), there’s often no need to make a switch. 

Also helpful, if your current energy supplier isn’t meeting your expectations—whether it’s poor customer service, confusing billing, lack of plan flexibility, or a rate that keeps fluctuating—it’s a good time to turn to the Apples to Apples tool. It lets you compare other certified suppliers who may offer better support, clearer terms, or innovative plan options that align with your lifestyle. 

If your household energy habits have shifted—maybe you’ve added new appliances, renovated your home, or improved your energy efficiency—it’s a good time to revisit your energy plan. While the Apples to Apples tool won’t show detailed plan features, it does give you an updated view of current rates from certified suppliers. You can use it as a starting point and then follow up directly with those suppliers to explore specific plan options that fit your new energy needs.  

For environmentally conscious consumers aiming to reduce their carbon footprint, the Apples to Apples tool also provides information on suppliers offering renewable energy plans. By filtering for renewable content, you can choose a supplier that aligns with your sustainability goals. 

Lastly, participants in programs like the Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) may have restrictions on switching suppliers. However, if you’re considering transitioning out of such programs, the Apples to Apples tool can assist in exploring available options and preparing for the change. 

Why Use Apples to Apples? 

Ohio’s energy marketplace can be overwhelming, with suppliers offering a wide variety of pricing structures, contract terms, and promotional deals. The Apples to Apples tool serves as a smart starting point, giving consumers a clearer picture of what is available before committing to an energy supplier. Even if you’re not ready to switch immediately, browsing the tool helps establish a baseline for shopping. 

Ultimately, while the tool doesn’t provide every contract detail, it offers a shortlist of PUCO-certified suppliers and some of their current offers serving as a valuable first step before visiting supplier websites or contacting them directly to gather more information and complete your switch. 

By leveraging the Apples to Apples Ohio comparison tool, Ohio residents can take control of their energy choices, potentially leading to cost savings, better customer service, and plans that better align with their individual needs! 

Ohio’s Apples to Apples Electric 

When it comes to shopping for electricity in Ohio’s deregulated market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of suppliers and plans. The Apples to Apples Electric comparison tool offers a straightforward way to see what rates are available in your utility area right now, all in one place. 

What You’ll Find on the Electric Apples to Apples Tool 

When you search for electricity plans, the tool displays most importantly, the price per kilowatt-hour; the core rate you’ll pay for every unit of electricity used. You’ll also see whether the plan features a fixed rate and variable rate plan options.   

For those interested in sustainability, the tool is able to filter by renewable energy plan options. Additional information includes introductory rates or special promotions, the contract term length and potential early termination fees; all helpful information to help you make an informed decision on your supplier choice. 

Key Things to Watch For 

Be sure to watch out for the “Price to Compare”. This number is your benchmark for knowing if a supplier’s rate is competitive. Keep in mind that some plans, like those with renewable energy, might be more expensive and the rate is just one consideration when shopping. 

A low variable rate might seem appealing but can change with market conditions, sometimes spiking unexpectedly. Lastly, always read the fine print for minimum usage requirements, monthly fees, or early exit penalties. 

Note: The options you see can be limited and it’s best to click into the suppliers you’re considering viewing all their plan options. 

Ohio’s Apples to Apples Gas  

Just like electricity, Ohio’s natural gas market is deregulated, allowing consumers to choose their natural gas supplier rather than being tied solely to their utility’s default service.  

The Apples to Apples Ohio tool is also an online resource that provides an up-to-date, side-by-side listing of natural gas offers from certified suppliers, giving consumers the power to easily compare prices, contract terms, and more. 

What You’ll Find on the Gas Apples to Apples Tool 

When you browse the natural gas comparison list, like the electricity side, you’ll find similar details such as rate type, details on contract termination fees, promotional offers and more. One vast difference on this side is the rate. On the natural gas side of Apples to Apples, this rate is priced in CCF or MCF, showing the cost per hundred cubic feet (CCF) or per thousand cubic feet (MCF) of natural gas. 

How to Navigate Apples to Apples Ohio 

If we’ve convinced you that the Apples to Apples tool is worth exploring, let us help you use it to its full potential! Here’s a step-by-step guide to navigating Apples to Apples Ohio: 

Step 1: Access the Official Tool 

Head to the official Apples to Apples site at energychoice.ohio.gov. This is the only website approved by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio to provide up-to-date information on certified energy supplier offers in the state.  

Step 2: Choose the Utility Type 

Once you’re on the site, you’ll need to choose which type of utility service you want to compare. In need of gas or electricity services to your home? That’s all you’ll need to know for this step. You’ll see options for electricity rates and natural gas rates. Click the one that applies to your current needs. The tool will tailor your search based on the type of energy you’re looking for. 

Step 3: Choose the Right Customer Category 

After selecting your energy type, you’ll be asked to choose between residential, small commercial, or large commercial options. If you’re shopping for your home, make sure to select residential. This ensures that the results you see are accurate and relevant to typical household energy usage and pricing. 

Step 4: Identify Your Utility Company 

Next, you’ll need to find and select your current utility company. This step is important because it ensures you’re only seeing offers that apply to your specific service area—since each utility serves a different part of the state of Ohio. 

If you’re not sure who your utility provider is, check your latest utility bill or use this quick guide based on where you live: 

Electricity Utility Providers in Ohio 

• Columbus: Your electric utility is likely AEP Ohio (American Electric Power). 

• Cleveland: You’re probably served by The Illuminating Company (a First Energy company). 

• Cincinnati: Most residents are under Duke Energy Ohio. 

• Akron: You’re likely served by Ohio Edison (a First Energy company). 

• Toledo: Most customers are served by Toledo Edison (also part of First Energy). 

• Dayton: Most customers are likely serviced by AES Ohio (formerly known as Dayton Power & Light) 

Gas Utility Providers in Ohio 

• Columbus: Your natural gas utility is likely Columbia Gas of Ohio. 

• Cleveland: Many customers receive gas service from Enbridge Gas Ohio (formerly Dominion Energy Ohio). 

• Cincinnati: Most residents are served by Duke Energy Ohio. 

• Akron & Canton: These areas are generally served by Enbridge Gas Ohio (formerly Dominion Energy Ohio). 

• Toledo: Natural gas service is typically provided by Columbia Gas of Ohio. 

• Dayton: Most residents are serviced by CenterPoint Energy (formerly Vectren)

Remember, your utility is responsible for delivering your electricity or natural gas and maintaining the infrastructure, while the supplier (which you choose through Apples to Apples) sets the rate for the electricity or natural gas itself. Selecting the correct utility ensures you’re viewing the supplier offers available in your region. 

Step 5: Browse the Supplier Offers 

Once you’ve chosen your utility, the tool will display a randomized list of certified suppliers currently enrolling new customers. Each offer provides key details like the price per kWh for electric or per Ccf or MFC for natural gas, whether the rate is associated with a fixed or variable rate plan type, renewable energy offers if you choose this filter, introductory offers, contract lengths, and even added monthly fees. 

Step 6: Compare Offers Carefully

Once you see the list of available energy suppliers, it can be tempting to go straight for the lowest price—but it’s important to look at the full picture before making a decision.  

Start by checking what plan type the rate is associated with. Fixed and variable rate plans have vast differences.  Also, take note of any extra fees, such as monthly service charges, minimum usage requirements, or hidden costs that could affect your total bill.  

Also, be sure to read the terms regarding early termination—some suppliers charge a cancellation fee if you switch before your contract ends. Lastly, watch for any incentives or promotions that may sound appealing upfront but come with conditions or penalties. Doing all this can ensure you’re making the best long-term decision for your home. 

Step 7: Go Beyond the Tool 

While the Apples to Apples tool is a great starting point, don’t rely on it alone to make your final decision. The tool lists basic details like price per kWh, contract length, and rate type, but it doesn’t tell the whole story about a supplier. 

Before you sign up, take the extra step to visit each supplier’s website you’re interested in to learn more. This lets you explore what else they offer beyond the rate—such as customer service quality, loyalty programs, other plan options, or any added perks that aren’t listed on Apples to Apples. Be sure to also research the supplier, checking out their Google reviews or Better Business Bureau ratings to ensure they’re a good fit. 

Doing your homework upfront helps ensure you’re not just getting a low rate, but also a supplier you can trust for reliable service and a positive experience over the long term. 

Step 8: Contact Suppliers Directly 

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, it’s a good idea to reach out to the suppliers you’re interested in. Contacting them directly allows you to ask questions, clarify any terms, and confirm the details of their offer—especially if something on the Apples to Apples site isn’t completely clear. 

Most suppliers have customer service teams available by phone or online and speaking with them can give you more confidence in your final decision. To officially enroll in the plan or supplier you’re switching to, you don’t do so directly on the Apples to Apples Ohio site. You’ll need to visit the supplier’s site directly and enroll from there. Luckily, most supplier enrollment processes only take a few minutes and require just a few steps! 

Step 9: Reevaluate When Needed 

If you’re satisfied with your current energy supplier and the service they provide, there’s no need to make a change—sometimes sticking with a provider you trust is the best choice. But if you find down the road that your supplier isn’t living up to your expectations—whether it’s unexpected rate changes, poor customer service, or plan terms that no longer meet your needs—remember that the Apples to Apples tool is always available to help you re-evaluate your options. 

Is It Worth It to Use Apples to Apples?

The Apples to Apples Ohio tool is a helpful resource that helps homeowners in Ohio weigh out their energy options. But you might be wondering if it’s worth it. Here’s a few pros and cons to help: 

Pros of Using Apples to Apples 

1. Official Platform: Apples to Apples is managed by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO), the official regulatory body overseeing the state’s energy market. Consumers can trust that the tool comes from a credible, government-backed source.
2. Neutral and Unbiased Information: The platform doesn’t favor any supplier over another. Offers are displayed in a randomized order, ensuring no paid placement or promotional priority—just fair, equal access to information. This neutrality helps consumers compare options without hidden agendas.
3. Comprehensive Offer Listings: The tool displays a wide range of supplier offers, including details such as price per kilowatt-hour (kWh) or hundred cubic feet (ccf), contract length, rate type (fixed or variable), early termination fees, and renewable energy content. This allows for a comprehensive side-by-side comparison.
4. Regular Updates: The offers on Apples to Apples are regularly updated, providing current information to help consumers make timely decisions.

Cons and Limitations 

1. Lack of Customer Experience Metrics: While Apples to Apples provides detailed plan information, it doesn’t include customer reviews, satisfaction ratings, or complaint histories. This absence makes it challenging to assess the quality of service provided by suppliers. 
2. Potential for Misleading Offers: Some suppliers may list low introductory rates that later increase significantly. Without detailed contract terms readily available, consumers might inadvertently select plans that don’t meet their long-term expectations.
3. Focuses Primarily on Price, Not Added Value: The platform centers heavily on price comparisons and overlooks other benefits suppliers may offer, such as rewards programs, charitable contributions, sustainability initiatives, or customer perks. These extra values—which can make a supplier more appealing—aren’t visible on the tool, so consumers may miss out on offers that go beyond just price.

What Santanna Energy Services Can Offer You as Your Supplier 

While the Apples to Apples tool helps you compare rates, choosing an energy supplier is about more than just the numbers, it’s about finding a company that truly takes care of you. At Santanna Energy Services, we’re proud to offer more than energy—we offer value, rewards, and a partnership you can count on. Here’s what makes us different: 

We offer innovative plans designed for stability and peace of mind, including Unlimited Energy plans that help protect you from supply charge spikes*, plus fixed-rate plans to keep your rates steady each month. 

Every Santanna customer can participate in our Customer Rewards Program, where you can earn monthly rewards like gift cards, your favorite electronics, or appliances just by being a Santanna customer! It’s our way of saying thank you for choosing us. 

Most close to our hearts, when you choose Santanna, you’re supporting a company that gives back. That’s The Santanna Difference. We proudly donate to charitable organizations throughout the Midwest** and partner with One Tree Planted to plant trees*** for a better and more thriving tomorrow! 

Also, with our U.S.-based customer care team, you’re never left navigating problems alone. Whether you need billing help, plan guidance, or just a real person to talk to, we’re here and we care. Plus, we’re able to be reached by phone call, text, online chat and email, so you can contact us however you prefer to communicate.  

Have we piqued your interest? Explore our tailored plans in your area by clicking here! 

Apples to Apples is a valuable starting point for Ohio consumers exploring energy supplier options. Its official status and comprehensive listings make it a trustworthy resource.  

However, for a more complete understanding beyond just rates, it’s a good idea to visit each supplier’s website directly. There, you can explore details about customer service, rewards programs, billing policies, and other perks that may not appear on comparison tools. By taking this extra step, you’ll gain a fuller picture and make a well-informed decision that truly fits your energy needs and preferences. 

Searching for the right supplier is about finding a partner who delivers long-term value, reliable service, and peace of mind. If you’ve done your homework with Apples to Apples and want a supplier who offers more than just competitive rates, Santanna is ready to help. Click here to explore our plans or speak with a friendly team member about your options. 

* Restrictions apply. Enrollment based upon program eligibility. Customers using more than 125% of normal monthly usage as determined by Santanna may be required to switch plans.

** Santanna Energy Services (Santanna) works in partnership with One Tree Planted. For every residential Earth-Friendly Santanna gas or electricity initial enrollment or renewal, Santanna, via its One Tree Planted partnership, will plant trees after 60 days of billed usage. Plans may vary. See plan details for eligibility and current tree-planting promotions. 

***For every Unlimited Energy gas or electricity initial enrollment or renewal, Santanna Energy Services will contribute corporate donations to a nonprofit organization in the Midwest after 60 days of billed usage. Plans may vary. See plan details for eligibility and current charity donation promotion