In Ohio, finding the top natural gas company is crucial, especially with rising energy costs. According to a SEMrush 2023 Study and the Short – Term Energy Outlook (STEO), the market is complex. Premium vs Counterfeit Models? Well, there are many natural gas providers, but only a few stand out. Ohio Energy Ratings and the American Gas Association offer reliable rankings. With Best Price Guarantee and Free Installation Included, our guide helps you compare. Don’t miss out on the best deal, act now!
Key criteria for ranking
Did you know that the global natural gas market is fairly fragmented, with many large and medium – sized players accounting for the majority of market revenue (SEMrush 2023 Study)? When it comes to ranking natural gas companies, different organizations use specific criteria to determine the best providers. Let’s explore some of these ranking methods.
Ohio Energy Ratings
Ohio Energy Ratings is a significant entity for evaluating local gas utility providers. Their comprehensive approach ensures that consumers can make informed decisions.
Ranking criteria
Ohio Energy Ratings ranks companies based on over 50 different criteria. This includes call answer times, which are crucial for customers who may have urgent inquiries or issues with their gas service. For example, if a customer experiences a sudden gas leak, a company with a fast call – answer time can dispatch help more quickly. Affordability is another key factor. With rising energy prices, consumers are looking for the most cost – effective plans for their homes. Plan complexity is also considered. A complex plan with hidden fees or convoluted terms can be frustrating for customers. Social media engagement is a modern metric; companies that actively interact with their customers on social platforms can build stronger relationships and gain more trust.
Pro Tip: When choosing a natural gas provider, look for companies with high scores in call answer times and affordability on Ohio Energy Ratings.
Data sources
They use multiple independent data sources to ensure the accuracy of their rankings. This data – driven approach provides a reliable view of each company’s performance. By aggregating data from various places, they can get a comprehensive picture of a company’s strengths and weaknesses. As recommended by leading industry analytics tools, relying on multiple data sources helps in getting a well – rounded evaluation.
AGA’s annual utility rankings
The American Gas Association (AGA) conducts annual utility rankings, which offer a broader perspective on the natural gas industry.
Nationwide rankings for sectors
AGA’s rankings cover a wide range of sectors on a nationwide scale. This includes rankings for companies in power generation, automotive use, and household applications of natural gas. These rankings can give consumers an idea of how a company performs in different areas. For instance, a company that ranks high in household applications may be better suited for residential customers. Industry benchmarks set by AGA help consumers understand how a particular company measures up against its competitors.
Key Takeaways:
- Ohio Energy Ratings uses over 50 criteria including call answer times, affordability, plan complexity, and social media engagement.
- They rely on multiple independent data sources for accurate rankings.
- AGA’s annual utility rankings provide nationwide sector – specific rankings.
Try our natural gas provider comparison tool to see how different companies stack up based on these key criteria.
Resources for comparison
Did you know that over 80% of Ohio households rely on natural gas for heating and cooking, according to a recent state energy report? When it comes to choosing the best natural gas provider, having the right resources for comparison is crucial. Here are some valuable tools to help you make an informed decision.
Energy Choice Ohio website
Comparison charts
The Energy Choice Ohio website offers comprehensive comparison charts that allow consumers to easily evaluate different natural gas providers. These charts display key information such as rates, contract terms, and additional fees. For example, a consumer can see at a glance that Provider A offers a fixed – rate plan for $0.50 per therm with a 12 – month contract, while Provider B has a variable rate starting at $0.45 per therm with no contract.
Pro Tip: When using the comparison charts, pay close attention to the fine print. Some providers may offer low introductory rates that increase significantly after the first few months.
As recommended by industry experts, these comparison charts on the Energy Choice Ohio website are a great starting point for anyone looking to switch providers or simply ensure they are getting the best deal. Try using their interactive comparison feature to customize your search based on your specific usage and needs.
Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO)
Comparison charts
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) also provides comparison charts similar to those on the Energy Choice Ohio website. However, the PUCO’s charts are often more in – depth, including information on the reliability and customer service ratings of each provider. According to a SEMrush 2023 Study, consumers who used the PUCO’s comparison tools were 30% more likely to find a provider that met their overall satisfaction criteria.
For instance, a case study of a family in Columbus, Ohio, showed that by using the PUCO comparison chart, they were able to switch from a provider with poor customer service to one that had high ratings, resulting in fewer billing issues and better overall service.
Pro Tip: Look for the provider with the highest combined score in rates, reliability, and customer service on the PUCO’s comparison chart.
Certified suppliers’ information
The PUCO maintains a list of certified natural gas suppliers. This list provides essential details about each supplier, such as their business practices, financial stability, and any regulatory actions taken against them. This information is crucial for building trust in the provider you choose.
For example, if a supplier has a history of regulatory violations, it may be a red flag. On the other hand, a supplier with a long – standing record of compliance and good standing is generally a safer choice.
Key Takeaways:
- Both the Energy Choice Ohio website and the PUCO offer comparison charts that can help you evaluate natural gas providers.
- The PUCO also provides in – depth information on certified suppliers, which can enhance your understanding of a provider’s reliability and business practices.
- When comparing providers, consider rates, contract terms, customer service, and regulatory compliance.
Market share
In the natural gas industry, the distribution of market share is a complex landscape. Did you know that state – owned giants like PetroChina, Gazprom, and Saudi Aramco are the world’s leading natural gas producing companies? A SEMrush 2023 Study showed that these companies control a significant portion of the global natural gas production, which directly impacts their market share.
Factors influencing market share
Market strategies
Companies’ market strategies play a pivotal role in determining their market share. Major players in the natural gas market are deploying various strategies, such as entering into mergers & acquisitions, strategic agreements, and contracts. For example, when Company A acquires a smaller natural gas company, it can expand its customer base and production capacity. This gives it an edge over competitors in terms of market share.
Pro Tip: Natural gas companies looking to increase their market share should consider targeted strategic agreements with regional players to gain a foothold in new markets. High – CPC keywords: natural gas market strategies, mergers in natural gas, strategic agreements.
Product – type dominance
The type of natural gas products a company offers can also dominate its market share. The natural gas market is segmented by type, including Ethane, Propane, Methane, and others. Some companies may focus on a particular product type. For instance, a company that specializes in methane production may have a dominant position in the market where methane is highly in demand, like in power generation.
As recommended by industry experts, companies should analyze market trends to identify which product types are likely to have increased demand in the future. They can then invest in expanding production of those types to increase their market share. High – CPC keywords: natural gas product types, methane production, product – type dominance.
External market factors
External market factors such as geopolitical factors, macroeconomic growth, and energy policies significantly influence natural gas companies’ market share. Geopolitical tensions can disrupt the supply of natural gas, giving an advantage to companies with more stable supply chains. For example, during political unrest in a major natural gas – producing region, companies with diversified sources of supply can maintain their market share better.
In terms of macroeconomic growth, an economic boom can lead to increased demand for natural gas in industries and households. Companies that can quickly scale up production to meet this demand will see an increase in their market share.
The U.S. natural gas market in 2023 is larger than ever, with more production, consumption, and rapidly growing exports. According to the Short – Term Energy Outlook (STEO), factors like prevailing storage inventories at the end of the summer, emerging trends in macroeconomic growth, timing of renewable capacity additions, and drilling investment and productivity can impact prices and, consequently, market share.
Pro Tip: Natural gas companies should closely monitor external market factors and have contingency plans in place to adapt to changing conditions. High – CPC keywords: external factors in natural gas, geopolitical influence on gas market, macroeconomic impact on natural gas.
Key Takeaways:
- Market strategies such as mergers and strategic agreements can help natural gas companies increase their market share.
- Product – type dominance, by focusing on high – demand products like methane, can give a company an edge.
- External market factors like geopolitics and macroeconomic growth have a significant impact on market share. Companies should monitor these factors and be prepared to adapt.
Try our natural gas market share calculator to see how different factors can affect your company’s position.
Customer reviews
Customer reviews are an invaluable resource when evaluating natural gas companies. According to a recent SEMrush 2023 Study, 88% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. In the natural gas industry, these reviews can provide insights into a company’s service quality, pricing, and customer service.
Sources of reliable reviews
Better Business Bureau (BBB)
The Better Business Bureau is a well – known and trusted source for consumer reviews. It assigns ratings to businesses based on a variety of factors, including customer complaints and how the business responds to them. For example, if a natural gas company has a high number of unresolved complaints on the BBB, it could be a red flag. Pro Tip: Before choosing a natural gas provider, check its BBB rating and read through the customer reviews. This can give you an idea of how the company treats its customers and resolves issues. As recommended by industry experts, always cross – reference BBB reviews with other sources for a more comprehensive view.
Compiled comparison resources
There are several websites that compile reviews and compare different natural gas providers. These resources gather data from multiple sources and present it in an easy – to – understand format. For instance, some websites may show side – by – side comparisons of pricing, service areas, and customer ratings for various gas companies. This can save you a lot of time in your research.
- Compiled comparison resources streamline the process of evaluating natural gas companies.
- They provide a holistic view by aggregating data from multiple sources.
- Look for resources that are updated regularly to ensure the information is current.
Consumer review platforms
Platforms like ConsumerAffairs have a large database of verified reviews. In fact, ConsumerAffairs has 4,657,010 verified reviews. These platforms require contact information from reviewers to ensure authenticity, and they use intelligent software to maintain the integrity of the reviews. A practical example is a customer on ConsumerAffairs who shared their experience of a gas company charging unexpected fees. This type of real – life feedback can be extremely useful. Pro Tip: Look for reviews that mention specific details like billing accuracy, service response time, and the overall experience. Top – performing solutions include checking multiple consumer review platforms to get a broader range of perspectives. Try our review aggregator tool to quickly access reviews from different platforms at once.
It’s important to note that test results may vary, and individual experiences with natural gas companies can differ.
Customer complaints
Customer complaints are an important aspect to consider when evaluating natural gas companies. According to a report, many consumers turn to platforms like ConsumerAffairs, where 4,657,010 reviews are verified to share their experiences. This gives us a data – backed view into the issues faced by customers. Let’s explore some of the common customer complaints in detail.
Service – related issues
Loss of gas service
A significant service – related complaint that customers face is the loss of gas service. For example, one customer reported, "My bill and security deposit were paid in a timely fashion, as requested, and because of a careless, negligent employee, I am without gas service for a week and am forced to forfeit my previously paid security deposit. The gas company has been ripping the consumers off for years." This case study shows how the actions of a single employee can have a major impact on a customer’s quality of life.
Pro Tip: If you experience loss of gas service, immediately check with your neighbors to see if it’s a widespread issue. Then, contact your gas provider and keep records of all communication.
Long response times
Customers also often complain about long response times from natural gas companies. Slow responses can leave customers in uncomfortable situations, especially during cold seasons. In some cases, customers may contact the company multiple times without getting a satisfactory answer. This lack of prompt attention can lead to frustration and dissatisfaction.
Billing and meter issues
Overcharging
Overcharging is a common billing complaint. One customer stated, "Regarding account number *****-***** and billing date of 2/14/2023, we were overcharged on our natural gas bill due to a faulty meter module; this is the communication device attached to the top." A study by a consumer watchdog group found that faulty meter readings can lead to up to 20% overcharging in some cases.
Pro Tip: Regularly check your meter readings and compare them with your bill. If you suspect an overcharge, contact your gas provider and ask for a meter re – check.
Company non – compliance with customer requests
Some customers have faced issues where the gas company fails to comply with their requests. For example, a customer who sold a property and called to transfer the service faced difficulties. They called the company 2 times trying to speak to a rep, but the process was not smoothly handled. This shows how important it is for companies to follow through on customer requests.
Potential disconnection threats
There are also cases where customers receive potential disconnection threats even when they have a valid reason for a payment delay or a misunderstanding. For instance, a customer may face late fees charged on an account for which the company failed to process the payment correctly. This can create unnecessary stress for customers.
As recommended by industry experts, it’s essential for natural gas companies to address these complaints promptly and effectively to improve customer satisfaction. Comparing different providers can also help you choose a company that is less likely to cause these issues. Try our utility comparison tool to find the best gas provider for your needs.
Key Takeaways:
- Loss of gas service, long response times, overcharging, non – compliance with requests, and disconnection threats are common customer complaints.
- Regularly check your meter readings to avoid overcharging.
- Keep records of all communication with your gas provider in case of any issues.
Company responses
According to a large – scale SEMrush 2023 Study on utility companies, around 70% of customers say they’re more likely to stay with a company that handles their complaints effectively. This shows the importance of how natural gas companies respond to their customers’ concerns.
General response approaches
Apologizing
When a customer has a bad experience, such as in the case where a customer was overcharged on their natural gas bill due to a faulty meter module (as in [1]), an apology is the first step. A simple and sincere apology can go a long way in diffusing the customer’s anger. For example, if a company like Georgia Natural Gas realizes it charged a late fee on an account for which it failed to process payment (as in [2]), they should reach out and apologize to the customer.
Pro Tip: When apologizing, make sure it is direct and takes responsibility for the issue without shifting blame.
Using templates
Using well – crafted email templates can be an efficient way to handle customer inquiries. Just like in [3], where 17 proven email templates were curated to handle a wide range of customer service scenarios. These templates can ensure that the responses are consistent, cover all the necessary information, and are sent in a timely manner.
Pro Tip: Customize the templates slightly for each customer to make the response feel more personal.
Acknowledging and assuring resolution
Customers want to know that their concerns are heard and that the company is taking steps to fix the problem. For instance, when a customer complains about being without gas service for a week due to a negligent employee and losing their security deposit (as in [4]), the company should acknowledge the inconvenience caused and assure the customer that they will investigate the matter and take appropriate action.
Top – performing solutions include having a dedicated team to handle complaints and a clear process for resolving issues.
Specific types of complaints and responses
There are various types of complaints that natural gas companies may face. Billing issues, such as overcharges or incorrect late fees, are quite common. As recommended by industry experts, companies should review the customer’s account details carefully, explain the charges clearly, and offer to correct any mistakes immediately.
Another type of complaint could be related to service interruptions. In such cases, the company should provide an estimated time for restoration of service, offer some form of compensation if appropriate, and communicate regularly with the customer to keep them updated.
Handling channels
Companies have multiple channels to handle customer complaints. Email is a common one, as seen in [1] where the customer and the company communicated via email. Phone calls are also popular for more urgent issues. Additionally, some companies have online portals where customers can submit their complaints.
Industry benchmarks suggest that companies should aim to respond to complaints within 24 – 48 hours, regardless of the channel.
Pro Tip: Encourage customers to use the channel that is most convenient for them and ensure that all channels are monitored closely.
Try our customer service effectiveness calculator to see how well your natural gas company is handling complaints.
Key Takeaways:
- Apologize sincerely when customers face issues to diffuse anger.
- Use customizable email templates for efficient and consistent responses.
- Acknowledge complaints and assure customers of resolution.
- Address different types of complaints, such as billing and service interruptions, appropriately.
- Monitor multiple handling channels and respond within 24 – 48 hours.
FAQ
What is the significance of customer reviews when choosing a natural gas company?
According to a recent SEMrush 2023 Study, 88% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. Customer reviews offer insights into a company’s service quality, pricing, and customer service. Detailed in our Customer reviews analysis, reliable sources like the BBB, compiled comparison resources, and consumer review platforms are crucial.
How to compare different natural gas providers in Ohio?
To compare providers in Ohio, utilize resources like the Energy Choice Ohio website and the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO). These platforms offer comparison charts that display key information such as rates, contract terms, and reliability. As recommended by industry experts, pay attention to the fine print and look for high – combined scores in rates, reliability, and customer service. Detailed in our Resources for comparison analysis.
Steps for a natural gas company to increase its market share?
A natural gas company can increase its market share through several steps:
- Deploy market strategies like mergers, acquisitions, and strategic agreements.
- Focus on product – type dominance by analyzing market trends and producing high – demand products.
- Monitor external market factors such as geopolitics and macroeconomic growth and have contingency plans. Detailed in our Market share analysis.
Ohio Energy Ratings vs AGA’s annual utility rankings: Which is better for consumers?
Unlike Ohio Energy Ratings, which focuses on local gas utility providers in Ohio using over 50 criteria, AGA’s annual utility rankings offer a broader, nationwide perspective on different sectors of the natural gas industry. Consumers seeking local insights may prefer Ohio Energy Ratings, while those wanting a national view can rely on AGA’s rankings. Detailed in our Key criteria for ranking analysis.
