Hazmat training grants application period now open

The application period for hazardous materials training grants from the PUCO is now open. Through the annual hazardous materials training grant program, educational institutions and local governments across Ohio are awarded grants for training to best respond to incidents related to hazardous materials.

"Making sure our first responders have relevant training for hazardous incidents is critical, and the recent derailment disaster in East Palestine had put a focus on this issue," said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. "These PUCO grants for training in responding to hazardous material incidents will help be a part of the solution to ensure Ohio first responders have everything they need to be ready."

The 2023 grant application period closes on May 31, 2023.

In 2022, the PUCO authorized a total of $800,000 to 16 local governments and educational institutions.

Learn more about the program and how to apply here.

Five public hearings on AEP Ohio electricity pricing plan scheduled

The PUCO has scheduled five public hearings throughout April and May regarding AEP Ohio’s application for an electric security plan.

The local public hearings will be held as follows:

• April 13, 2023, 6:00 p.m., Findlay, Ohio 
• April 26, 2023, 6:00 p.m., Zanesville, Ohio 
• May 1, 2023, 6:00 p.m., Marietta, Ohio 
• May 22, 2023, 12:30 p.m., Columbus, Ohio 
• May 23, 2023, 5:00 p.m., Columbus, Ohio 

More information about AEP Ohio's application and the public hearings is available here.

Final weeks for Special Reconnect Order

The Special Reconnect Order allows residential customers who are disconnected or being threatened with disconnection from their utility to have their service restored or maintained with just a $175 payment.

The Special Reconnect Order runs through April 15, 2023 and no sign up is required.

More information is available here.

OPSB approves Grover Hill Wind transmission line in Paulding County

This month, the Ohio Power Siting Board authorized Grover Hill Wind, LLC to construct an 8-mile long 138 kilovolt transmission line for the Grover Hill Wind Farm in Blue Creek and Latty townships in Paulding County. The line will connect the Grover Hill Wind Farm collection substation to the existing American Electric Power Haviland Substation, allowing the facility to interconnect up to 150 megawatts of electricity to the regional power grid.

More information about this case and other business from this month's meeting is available here.

2021 Renewable Portfolio Standard Report is now available

The Renewable Portfolio Standard Report to the General Assembly for compliance year 2021 is now available.

Ohio law contains a renewable energy portfolio standard (RPS) that requires that 8.5 percent of electricity sold by Ohio’s electric distribution utilities or electric services companies must be generated from renewable energy sources by 2026.

The law sets annual benchmarks, or incremental percentage requirements for renewable energy, through 2026.

Learn more about the renewable energy standard and 2021's report here.

Making the energy choice

In Ohio, consumers can shop for the energy supplier of their choice. But how do you know if switching is right for you? Or what protections you have?

The PUCO is here to help you learn more about energy choice, decide if choosing is right for you and help you find the supplier that fits your budget and lifestyle.

Click here to read more about choosing a supplier.