Spring into safe digging!
Spring is here, and with it comes the urge to tackle outdoor projects: gardens, landscaping, or home renovations.
Before you pick up a shovel, it’s crucial to remember that underground utility lines may lie just beneath the surface. Hitting one could be dangerous and costly. Fortunately, Ohio has a system in place to help you dig safely: OHIO811.
By contacting OHIO811 at least 48 hours before you dig, you can have utility companies mark the locations of underground lines on your property.
Through the Underground Technical Committee, the PUCO oversees compliance with Ohio’s underground utility safety rules. This committee reviews incidents and ensures that excavators follow the law.
Learn more about safe digging and the Underground Technical Committee with the link below!
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PUCO issues order on AEP Ohio's distribution rate case, updates bill format
In April, the PUCO ordered AEP Ohio to implement new distribution rates that will reduce its annual revenues by approximately $58.7 million and approved AEP Ohio’s request to update its bill format.
“The settlement we’re approving today focuses on utility affordability and ensuring that new data centers are responsible for the costs they impose on the grid, while providing the utility with the tools it needs to focus on system reliability,” stated PUCO Chair Jenifer French. “
The PUCO adopted a settlement agreement that will increase base distribution revenues by $11 million, compared to the $97 million sought by the utility. AEP Ohio will also return to customers approximately $105 million to customers over an 18-month period due to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, contributing to the overall revenue decrease.
The order includes a minimum monthly customer charge for new data center customers to ensure they cover grid-related costs, building on a prior PUCO directive to create a specific data center tariff. The Commission also approved a revised bill format designed to enhance transparency and help customers better understand their electricity bills.
Read more about this case here.
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PUCO applies for $150 million in high-voltage SPARK funding
The PUCO is seeking up to $150 million in U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) funding for Ohio’s high-voltage transmission grid. The request is made under the newly announced Speed to Power through Accelerated Reconductoring and other Key Advanced Transmission Technology Upgrades (SPARK).
The PUCO submitted a concept paper highlighting “advanced transmission technologies” opportunities using advanced conductors, advanced power flow control, and dynamic line ratings as ways to improve the use of existing infrastructure. Effective deployment can reduce the need to build costly new electric transmission lines.
Click here for more information about the program and the PUCO's application.
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Upcoming outreach at the Ohio Power Siting Board
Interested in new projects before the Ohio Power Siting Board (OPSB)? Public information meetings help company representatives inform residents and stakeholders about anticipated projects that will file an application with the OPSB.
Check out the list of May's public meetings:
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Utilities file reliability data for upcoming statewide report
As required by the approved rules in Case No. 25-826-EL-UNC, Ohio's electric distribution utilities have filed their annual reliability reports.
These reports will be analyzed by PUCO staff and used to create a draft statewide reliability report, which will be open for comment.
Find the reports here:
Learn more about the new statewide reliability report here.
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Rules available for comment
All state agencies are required to conduct a review of their rules every five years to determine whether those rules should be continued, changed or amended.
The cases below have been opened for comment on proposed rule changes:
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Case No. 26-0059-EL-ORD: Rules for electric standard service offer procurement
Comments due May 11
Reply comments due May 25
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Case No. 26-0060-EL-ORD: Rules on transmission cost allocation
Comments due May 1
Reply comments due May 15
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Case No. 25-1159-AU-ORD: Rules on poles, ducts, conduits and rights-of-way
Comments due May 15
Reply comments due May 29
Review the PUCO's administrative rules here.
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PUCO approves rail crossing safety upgrades
Safety upgrades are coming soon toa rail crossing in the city of Toledo, Lucas County.
Ann Arbor Railroad will install flashing lights and gates at the Erie Street grade crossing in the city of Toledo, Lucas County, by April 14, 2027. Federal funds will pay $415,600 to complete the project.
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Celebrating National Public Safety Telecommunicator Week
Every year during the second week of April, thousands of public safety telecommunicators are honored for the important work they do.
This is a time to celebrate those who have dedicated their life work to public service and thank them for their hard work. This week was originally started in 1981 by Patricia Anderson of the Contra Costa County Sherriff’s Office in California.
PUCO motor carrier inspectors stopped by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources to thank their amazing dispatchers, who assist the PUCO's transportation department out in the field.
Thanks to these hardworking staff!
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Earth Day was April 22, but you can conserve energy all year long! Reducing your energy footprint not only is good for the planet, it can help save money on your utility bills.
Here are a few quick tips:
💡 1. Switch to LEDs: Replace old bulbs with LED lighting! They use up to 75% less energy and last 25 times longer, keeping your home bright and eco-friendly.
☀️ 2. Use natural light: Open those curtains! Rely on natural light during the day to reduce the need for electric lighting.
🖥️ 3. Unplug electronics: Many devices draw power even when turned off. Unplug chargers, TVs, and computers when not in use, or use a power strip to easily turn them off all at once.
🍽️ 4. Run full loads: Only run your dishwasher and washing machine when they are full. It saves water and the energy needed to heat it.
🌡️ 5. Adjust your thermostat: Give your HVAC system a break! Raise the temperature slightly in the summer or lower it in the winter when you are sleeping or away to save energy.
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Positions are posted regularly to Careers.Ohio.gov. Use the filter to select "Public Utilities Commission" to see all open jobs.
View all open positions at Careers.Ohio.gov.
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