PUCO orders FirstEnergy’s Ohio utilities to reduce bill impact of distribution rate change

COLUMBUS, OH (Feb. 18, 2026) – Today the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) issued an entry on rehearing ordering Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company, Ohio Edison, and Toledo Edison to update their rates for electricity distribution service, citing affordability concerns.  

Specifically, the PUCO ordered the utilities to amortize approximately $245 million of previously deferred storm restoration expenses over a 25-year period, compared to the 5-year period initially authorized. In doing so, the PUCO also affirmed its prior determination that these costs be subject to further review and audit. 

The net effect of today’s order is an approximate $39.4 million reduction in annual revenues for the three utilities, compared to the revenues authorized by the PUCO in November 2025.  

The annual revenue changes are as follows: 

Ohio Edison will set rates to lower its annual revenues by approximately $24.5 million. 

Toledo Edison will set rates to lower its annual revenues by approximately $29.5 million. 

Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company will set rates to increase its annual revenues by approximately $48.7 million. 

The PUCO ordered the utilities to file updated tariffs by Feb. 24, 2026, to implement today’s ruling, and Nov. 19, 2025 opinion and order, to be effective on March 1, 2026. 

Case Background  

On May 31, 2024, FirstEnergy filed an application to increase rates and charges for electric distribution service. The application sought a rate increase that would generate approximately $190.3 million of additional annual revenue across its Cleveland Illuminating Company, Ohio Edison and Toledo Edison service territories. 

Learn more about the PUCO’s distribution rate case process  

The PUCO held local public hearings in Akron, Cleveland and Toledo in April 2025, and an evidentiary hearing took place in May 2025. 

A copy of today’s second entry on rehearing is available on the PUCO website at PUCO.ohio.gov by clicking on the link to “Docketing Information System” and searching for case 24-468-EL-AIR. 

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) is the sole agency charged with regulating public utility service. The role of the PUCO is to assure all residential, business and industrial consumers have access to adequate, safe and reliable utility services at fair prices while facilitating an environment that provides competitive choices. Consumers with utility-related questions or concerns can call the PUCO Call Center at (800) 686-PUCO (7826) and speak with a representative. 

For additional information, contact: Matt Schilling | (614) 466-7750