How Do I Opt-Out of the 2026 NOPEC Electric Aggregation in Brunswick?

For homeowners in Brunswick, receiving a NOPEC electric aggregation notice in 2026 can raise an immediate question: do I have to participate, or can I opt out?

The good news is that participation in NOPEC is completely optional. If you prefer to choose your own electricity supplier or stay with your current plan, you have the right to opt out. The process itself is straightforward, but timing and attention to detail matter more than most people realize.

Once you understand how the system works—and when to act—opting out becomes a quick and manageable task.

Step 1: Watch for Your NOPEC Enrollment Letter

If Brunswick is participating in a 2026 NOPEC aggregation cycle, you will receive an official letter in the mail outlining your proposed electric rate, the supplier, and your opt-out deadline.

In Brunswick’s 2026 NOPEC cycle, enrollment letters are expected to arrive in late spring to early summer, with opt-out deadlines typically about 21 days from the mailing date. That short window makes it important to open and review the notice as soon as it arrives.

This letter is your opportunity to opt out before any changes happen. If you ignore it or miss the deadline, you may be automatically enrolled.

Step 2: Decide If You Actually Want to Opt Out

Before taking action, review the offer carefully. NOPEC programs are designed to provide group pricing, which can sometimes be competitive—but not always the lowest available.

Many Brunswick homeowners choose to opt out because they already have a better rate, prefer more control over their energy supplier, or want to avoid automatic changes. The simplest way to decide is to compare the NOPEC rate in the letter with the supply rate listed on your current electric bill.

Step 3: Use the Opt-Out Method Listed in Your Letter

Your NOPEC notice will include several opt-out options, typically allowing you to respond by mail, phone, or online.

The fastest and most reliable method is usually online or by phone, since you can receive confirmation immediately. No matter which method you choose, follow the instructions exactly as listed in your letter to ensure your request is properly processed.

Step 4: Opt Out Before the Deadline

Every NOPEC letter includes a firm opt-out deadline, usually within a few weeks of mailing.

If you do not act before that deadline, you may be automatically enrolled and your supplier could be switched without further notice. While you can leave the program later, opting out during the initial window is the easiest way to avoid any changes.

Step 5: Keep Confirmation of Your Opt-Out

After submitting your request, keep proof of confirmation. This could be a confirmation number, an email, or a saved screenshot if you opted out online.

Having documentation ensures that you can verify your status if there are any questions later.

Step 6: Verify Your Supplier on Your Next Bill

Once your opt-out request has been processed, check your next electric bill to confirm that your supplier has not changed.

Your bill should continue to show your current supplier or your default utility rate. This final step ensures that everything was handled correctly.

What Happens If You Miss the Opt-Out Window?

If you miss the deadline and are enrolled in NOPEC, you are not locked in permanently. Most aggregation programs allow you to leave at any time without penalties.

However, you will need to take an additional step to switch back, which is why opting out early is the simpler and more controlled option.

Why Brunswick Residents Are Automatically Included

Brunswick participates in NOPEC as part of a community aggregation program, which allows the city to negotiate electric rates on behalf of residents.

Under Ohio law, residents are automatically included but always given the option to opt out. This opt-out model is why you receive a notice instead of being asked to enroll manually.

Pro Tip: Always Compare Rates Before Deciding

Electric rates can shift throughout the year, so it is worth taking a moment to compare your options. Look at your current rate, the NOPEC offer, and any available third-party suppliers.

The hard deadline for the current 2026 cycle is May 8, 2026, so any comparison should be done before that date if you plan to opt out.

If you are unsure whether the NOPEC rate is competitive, use Ohio’s official “Apples to Apples” tool at energychoice.ohio.gov. This state-run resource allows you to compare every available electric supplier in Brunswick side-by-side, including rates, contract terms, and fees.

Some homeowners prefer the stability of aggregation, while others find better pricing by shopping independently. The right choice depends on how actively you want to manage your energy costs.

Should I Opt Out? A Quick Decision Checklist

Use this checklist to quickly decide whether opting out of NOPEC makes sense for your situation:

• Is your current electric rate lower than the NOPEC offer?
  If yes, opting out helps you keep your better rate.
• Do you want full control over your energy supplier?
  Opting out allows you to choose and switch providers anytime.
• Are you comfortable comparing electric rates?
  If yes, opting out gives you more opportunities to save.
• Do you already have a contract with another supplier?
  Staying in your current plan may be easier than switching.
• Do you want to avoid automatic enrollment changes?
  Opting out ensures nothing changes without your approval.
• Do you prefer simplicity and a set-it-and-forget-it option?
  If yes, staying in NOPEC may be the better choice.
• Are you okay with being enrolled if you take no action?
  If not, you should opt out before the deadline.

If most of your answers point toward control and flexibility, opting out is likely the better move. If you prefer simplicity and minimal effort, staying in NOPEC may make more sense.

The Bottom Line

Opting out of the 2026 NOPEC electric aggregation in Brunswick is simple, but it requires attention to timing and detail. Watch for your enrollment letter, review the offer carefully, and submit your opt-out request before the deadline.

Because in Brunswick, you are automatically included—but you are always in control of whether you stay.