Electric
As the state’s designated voice for more than four million Ohio residential electric consumers, the Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel (OCC) seeks to protect consumers by advocating for reasonable rates, reliable service, and energy payment assistance to those in need. OCC advocates for Ohioans before the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) and before federal agencies such as the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).
More than two decades after electricity was deregulated in Ohio, electric utilities continue to collect subsidies from their monopoly consumers. OCC’s Subsidy Scorecard shows that more than $15 billion in above-market subsidies have been charged to Ohio consumers by their electric utilities since 2000.
Featured Issues
Energy Choice: How to Spot a Bad Apple
A bad deal with a natural gas or electric marketer could cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars a year. There are some “bad apples” to avoid!
Utility Consumers: Where is my refund?
Ohioans have been denied $1.5 billion in electric refunds since 2009.
HB6 Subsidies Ohioans have paid to AEP, AES & Duke
For coal-power plants since 1/1/20 (Estimated)
OVEC coal plant pollution from AEP, AES & Duke
Since 1/1/20 (Estimated per US EPA 2023 data)
Videos: Understanding Your Ohio Utilities
Having trouble paying your utility bill or wondering about energy choice?
Let’s end consumer subsidies of coal power plants
OCC has long-opposed coal subsidies funded through consumers’ electricity rates
Energy Choice: Know Your Rights!
Ohio law clearly defines rules and codes of conduct marketers must follow.
Consumer Alerts
Your voices can make a difference.
Your voices can make a difference.
It is very important for the PUCO to hear from you, the consumers directly affected by rate increases.
Need Help with Your Utility Bills? Payment Plans are Available
Contact your utility company to ask for an individualized payment plan.
Related Topics
How to Avoid Utility-Related Scams and Fraud
Common utility-related scams, how to avoid being scammed, and where to report it.
Energy Choice: Block the Knock
Nicer weather may increase energy marketers knocking and claiming to save you money.
Special Reconnect Order (SRO)
Assistance for utility customers (regardless of income) to reconnect or avoid service disconnection.
Available mid-Oct. to mid-April
Electric Bill Made Easy
It is important that you read your bill each month, look for any unusual charges, and keep track of your normal electricity usage.
The Basics of Governmental Aggregation
Learn more about how government aggregation of energy works in Ohio.
Can You Benefit from a Utility Third-Party Notification?
A utility’s Third-Party Notification program serves as a safety net for consumers whose utility service could be disconnected.
Your Guide to Energy Disconnection & Reconnection
There is help if you struggle to pay electric and natural gas bills.
Utility Line Clearing and Tree Trimming
Ohio law requires utilities to maintain the safety of their lines.
Utility-Provided Assistance Programs
Helps utility customers with payment assistance for electric, natural gas and/or water bills.
What You Need to Know About Utility Line Warranties
Information to consider when deciding whether to purchase a utility line warranty.
Power Outage Tips and Consumer Rights
Be prepared and know your rights if a power outage occurred today.
Submetering (reselling of utility services) and proposed legislation
A submeter allows an apartment owner or other company to purchase utility service (electric and water) and then resell that service to tenants.
Utility Service for Tenants (Submetering)
Tenants should understand how they will receive and pay for utility services before signing a lease agreement.