PUCO denies AEP Ohio request to charge customers out of market generation costs

The PUCO has issued its opinion and order denying AEP Ohio’s request to charge all of its customers for its investments in certain electric generating facilities. 

Ohio law requires that prior to authorizing any such charge, the PUCO must first determine the electric generation facilities are needed based upon resource planning projections.

In its order, the Commission found AEP Ohio did not demonstrate the need for the facilities and therefore charging its customers for the facilities is not permissible.

PUCO directs DP&L to terminate distribution modernization rider

The PUCO issued an opinion and order that directs the Dayton Power & Light Company (DP&L) to terminate its distribution modernization rider in light of a recent Supreme Court of Ohio ruling. 

A residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt hours per month currently pays $9.40 on their monthly bill as a result of the distribution modernization rider.

NEO will provide natural gas distribution service to One Source’s customers

The PUCO authorized the sale of assets from One Source Energy, LLC (One Source) to Northeast Ohio Natural Gas Corp. (NEO). NEO will provide natural gas distribution service to One Source’s customers.

One Source had previously been ordered to cease operations as it was unable to show compliance with Ohio laws and regulations to reliably provide natural gas service to its customers.

In its order, the Commission noted NEO has the expertise required to manage and maintain the gas pipeline system, and One Source’s customers will continue to receive uninterrupted natural gas service.

The Commission directed NEO to send a notice to the affected customers informing them of the transfer as soon as possible.

Access to Natural Gas Forum

On November 7, the PUCO hosted the Access to Natural Gas Forum - a roundtable discussion designed to gather ideas for creative plans to bring natural gas to communities where access is limited.

The Ohio Gas Access Partnership, JobsOhio, Vectren Energy, Columbia Gas and Duke Energy presented at the forum, followed by a group discussion. View the presentations here and stay tuned for more updates.

International delegation from Bosnia and Herzegovina visit PUCO

From November 4-6, staff at the PUCO hosted energy regulators from Bosnia and Herzegovina as part of a study tour, sharing best practices in communications and public outreach. Thanks to the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners and USAID Bosnia and Herzegovina for providing this opportunity!

Celebrating Thanksgiving? Your household, along with others across the nation, might be firing up the stove, cooktop or oven to prepare a family feast. 

Here are a few tips to keep your utility bills in check this Thanksgiving:

• People generate heat in enclosed spaces. Lower the thermostat a degree or two before guests arrive. This keeps everyone comfortable while you save money.
• Check refrigerator and freezer doors to make sure they seal tightly. If you can slip a dollar bill through the closed door, it needs to be adjusted.
• Resist the urge to open the oven door to check on your food. Each time the door is open, heat escapes and the oven has to work harder to maintain the temperature.