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September 2019

Our docketing system, explained

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Looking for that one specific case document from three years ago? (And you forgot the case number?) Want instant notifications on cases you're following? 

Don't worry - it's easy to find and subscribe to PUCO cases using the Docketing Information System website. Click the image above to get started.

Case highlights

PUCO approves Winter Reconnect Order

The PUCO approved a Winter Reconnect Order on September 12. The Winter Reconnect Order helps Ohioans reconnect or maintain electric and natural gas service during the winter heating season between Oct. 14, 2019 and April 15, 2020. Any customer of a PUCO-regulated electric or natural gas company may take advantage of the order once during the winter heating season.

If you would like to take advantage of the Winter Reconnect Order, call your electric or natural gas company between Oct. 14, 2019 and April 15, 2020. 

More info about the order is available here.

Northeast Ohio Energy and Suburban Energy rate cases

The PUCO approved a settlement agreement that resolves all issues related to Northeast Ohio Natural Gas Corp.’s (NEO) application for an increase in rates. The agreement allows NEO to increase its annual distribution rates by $1.95 million. Rate impacts for residential customers will range between $1.82 and $2.85 depending on the customer’s service territory. 

The Commission also approved a settlement agreement that resolves all issues related to Suburban Natural Gas Company’s application for an increase in rates. The agreement authorizes a total revenue increase of $1.78 million that will be phased in over three years in order to reduce bill impacts for customers. Residential customers will experience an increase of $4.42 in their monthly bill for the first year. Additionally, in response to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), base rates will be adjusted to reflect the federal tax rates and a tax credit rider will be established to refund customers the collected income taxes under the TCJA.

Read more about the NEO settlement and the Suburban settlement.

Hazmat grants

The PUCO approved nine hazardous materials training grants totaling $800,000. 

Through the PUCO’s annual hazardous materials training grant program, public safety and emergency services personnel across Ohio are awarded grants for training to best respond to incidents related to hazardous materials. These grants are awarded to local government subdivisions, educational institutions and state agencies in Ohio.

Check out the list of awardees and their plans for the grants.

Consumer info

Rate Change Alerts - stay informed when your rate changes

When your utility rate changes, you should know. Sign up to receive text or email notifications when your residential electric or natural gas rates change.

Click to sign up for rate change alerts.

If you're interested in changing your supplier, compare updated rates and other terms at Energy Choice Ohio. 

National Preparedness Month - Be prepared, not scared

National Preparedness Month is recognized each September to promote family and community disaster and emergency planning.

The PUCO shared tips throughout September that focused on planning for power outages. 

Learn more about disaster planning at ready.gov.

Rail Safety Week - You can stop track tragedies

In the United States, a person or vehicle is hit by a train every three hours. Last year in Ohio, there were 66 accidents and eight fatalities at rail crossings.

Rail Safety Week was an opportunity to raise awareness about the need for caution near tracks and trains, but it's critical to stay safe year-round.

Read these seven steps for rail crossing safety.

Then check out the new Ohio Railroad Inventory System for interactive and detailed reports on crossing accidents in Ohio.

Events Oct. 1 Coshocton County Fair PUCO staff will be exhibiting at the Coschoton County Fair, ready to answer your utility questions! More information available here.

Oct. 30 - 31 o4a Annual Conference for Aging and Disability Resource Networks The PUCO will be attending and exhibiting at this annual conference in Columbus hosted by the Ohio Association of Area Agencies on Aging. Over 500 professionals, advocates, and volunteers representing organizations in the aging and disability network come together each year to learn about new resources, gain expert information, and make key contacts. Learn more here!

Request a speaker PUCO representatives are available to speak to your organization regarding utility issues like energy choice, conservation, aggregation and more! Requesting a speaker is as simple as contacting our office.

For questions about utility matters, contact the PUCO Call Center online or at (800) 686-7826.