The Illuminating Company electricity rates
Reviewed by the Volt Butler editorial team • Updated June 2026 • EIA Form 861 data (N/A)
The Illuminating Company is an electric utility serving customers in Ohio.
--
Rate data not available
Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration Form EIA-861
40%+
of OH households have shopped for a competitive supplier
Source: PUCO
100+
licensed residential suppliers in OH
Active suppliers accepting new customers
1-2
billing cycles to switch suppliers
No service interruption during switch
How electricity choice works in The Illuminating Company territory
Ohio is a deregulated electricity state. That means you can choose who generates your electricity while The Illuminating Company continues to deliver it through the existing power lines.
If you've never switched suppliers, you're on The Illuminating Company's "default service" rate—also called the "Standard Service Offer." This rate is set through a regulatory process and changes periodically. Licensed suppliers compete for your business and may offer rates below the default.
The Illuminating Company remains your utility regardless of which supplier you choose. They maintain the wires, handle outages, and send your bill. The only difference is a line item showing your supplier's generation charge instead of The Illuminating Company's default rate.
How to switch suppliers
Find your account info
Grab your The Illuminating Company bill. You'll need your account number and possibly your meter number to complete the switch.
Compare supplier rates
Review offers from PUCO-licensed suppliers. Look at the rate, term length, and any early termination fees before choosing.
Enroll with your new supplier
Sign up online with your chosen supplier. The switch happens automatically within 1-2 billing cycles with no service interruption.
Frequently asked questions
- Will I still receive a bill from The Illuminating Company?
- Yes. The Illuminating Company remains your utility and continues to bill you for delivery charges and your supplier's generation charge. You won't receive a separate bill from your supplier in most cases.
- What happens if there's a power outage?
- The Illuminating Company handles all outage response and restoration regardless of your electricity supplier. Report outages directly to The Illuminating Company.
- What's the current Standard Service Offer for The Illuminating Company?
- The Standard Service Offer (SSO) changes periodically and varies by rate class. Check your most recent The Illuminating Company bill or visit energychoice.ohio.gov for current rates.
- Can I switch back to The Illuminating Company's default rate?
- Yes, you can return to The Illuminating Company's default service at any time. Check your supplier contract for any early termination fees that may apply.
- Is there a fee to switch suppliers?
- The Illuminating Company does not charge a fee to switch suppliers. However, if you're currently under contract with a supplier, they may charge an early termination fee. Always review your contract terms.
Related guides
How Energy Choice Works in Ohio
Understanding Ohio's deregulated electricity market
How to Switch Providers in Ohio
Step-by-step guide to switching suppliers
Shopping for Electricity in Ohio
Tips for comparing plans on Apples to Apples
Fixed vs Variable Rate Plans
Which plan type makes sense for your household
Ready to compare rates in The Illuminating Company territory?
Enter your ZIP code to see available suppliers and current rates for your area.
Free comparison • PUCO-licensed suppliers • EIA-cited data