Timing Actually Matters

Energy supplier rates aren't static — they move with the wholesale electricity market, which moves with the weather. If you switch during the wrong season, you can lock in a rate that's 10-20% higher than what you'd get a few months later. Here's how to time it right.

The Cheapest Months to Lock In

Suppliers price their fixed-rate plans based on what they expect to pay for power over the next 12-36 months. When wholesale prices are low, the rates they offer you are low. Wholesale electricity in Ohio is cheapest during:

  • March - May (after winter heating demand drops, before summer cooling spikes)
  • September - October (after summer cooling drops, before winter heating ramps up)

If you sign a 12 or 24 month fixed-rate contract during one of these windows, you're typically locking in 8-15% better than someone who signs in January or July.

The Worst Months to Lock In

January - February and July - August are the worst. Wholesale rates are at their annual peaks, and suppliers price fixed plans accordingly. If your current contract is expiring in one of these months, consider going month-to-month for 60-90 days then locking in once rates settle.

What About Variable Plans?

Variable rates change monthly, so timing your enrollment matters less — you'll ride the market either way. But if you're switching FROM a variable plan TO a fixed plan, time that switch for spring or fall.

Other Timing Factors

Your Current Contract End Date

Most fixed contracts auto-renew at the supplier's current variable rate, which is often dramatically higher than what you signed up for. Set a calendar reminder 60 days before your contract ends to start comparing. Don't let it auto-renew.

Promotions and Sign-Up Bonuses

Suppliers sometimes offer first-year-only discounts, prepaid credit promotions, or free smart thermostats. These come and go, often pegged to fiscal quarters (end of Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4). Check rates monthly during your shopping window.

The Practical Plan

If you don't have a current bill or contract end date, just check rates now. The best plan available right now will almost always beat your utility's default rate, regardless of season. The seasonality matters most when you're choosing between two reasonable options — pick the one with the better timing.

Pro tip: EnergyMonkey tracks rate movements so you can see whether the current offers are at a seasonal low or high. Use that data to decide whether to lock in today or wait a month.