Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel
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Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel
@occ4consumers.bsky.social
Check out OCC’s Winter newsletter on affordability and managing high utility bills. Sign up to receive quarterly issues as well as relevant consumer alerts affecting your bills! Link: www.occ.ohio.gov/newsletters
February 19, 2026 at 9:22 PM
One of the best ways to save money on your utility bill is to reduce your usage of vampire power. Vampire Power is power that is used when you keep devices plugged in and they’re not in use. Learn more: www.occ.ohio.gov/factsheet/wh...
What's draining your energy? Vampire Power | Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel
What's draining your energy? Vampire PowerEven after household appliances and electronics are turned off, many devices left plugged in continue to use power and increase your electric bill.
www.occ.ohio.gov
February 19, 2026 at 7:02 PM
Are you struggling with high heating costs? You may qualify for HEAP’s Winter Crisis Program. Learn about the program and see if you qualify with this fact sheet: www.occ.ohio.gov/factsheet/ho...
February 18, 2026 at 5:02 PM
Are you concerned about the increase in data centers across Ohio? Make sure that you’re informed about how they could potentially impact you as a consumer and what OCC is doing to protect consumers: www.occ.ohio.gov/data-centers
Quick Facts: Data Centers in Ohio | Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel
Quick Facts: Data Centers in OhioWhat is a Data Center?A data center is a large building filled with computer servers and related equipment.
www.occ.ohio.gov
February 17, 2026 at 6:03 PM
The Third-Party Notification Program is voluntary and allows a consumer to designate a third party to get a copy of any utility shut-off notices or other delinquent payment reminders. More info: www.occ.ohio.gov/factsheet/th...
February 16, 2026 at 4:30 PM
ATTENTION AQUA CONSUMERS! Aqua Ohio has proposed a $13.4 Million rate increase for its water and sewer consumers. There is still time for you to make your voice heard in this case. Learn more here: www.occ.ohio.gov/factsheet/aq...
February 13, 2026 at 5:04 PM
In a recent decision, the PUCO ordered that $250 million be returned to consumers by FirstEnergy. OCC’s five-year fight has paid off! Learn more about OCC’s work at www.occ.ohio.gov
February 12, 2026 at 8:01 PM
Ohio consumers with regulated electric & natural gas utilities can use the PUCO Special Reconnect Order during the winter heating season to reconnect or to avoid disconnection of their utilities. #Ohio occ.ohio.gov/factsheet/sp...
February 11, 2026 at 4:59 PM
ATTENTION AES OHIO CONSUMERS! AES Ohio has proposed a delivery charge rate increase to the tune of more than $143 Million. If you’re thinking “enough is enough”, now is the time to speak up. Learn more: www.occ.ohio.gov/factsheet/ae...
AES Ohio Rate Increase 25-0958-EL-AIR | Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel
AES Ohio Wants to Raise Electric Bills Again!OCC Calls for Fair, Affordable Rates for Consumers Make Your
www.occ.ohio.gov
February 10, 2026 at 6:43 PM
Given the increase in severe winter weather events, it is important to be aware of your rights and preparation tips in case a power outage occurs. Preparation is key. Learn more here: www.occ.ohio.gov/factsheet/po...
Power Outage Tips and Customer Rights | Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel
Power Outage Tips and Consumer Rights
www.occ.ohio.gov
February 9, 2026 at 5:20 PM
Facing a utility disconnection? Ohio’s Special Reconnect Order (SRO) can help.
Eligible electric and natural gas customers of PUCO-regulated utilities may reconnect or maintain service with a $175 payment during heating season.
Learn more: www.occ.ohio.gov/factsheet/sp...
February 6, 2026 at 3:03 PM
One of our most popular fact sheets for consumers, How to Shop for Lightbulbs, simplifies the information you need to choose the best bulbs for your needs. youtu.be/T6XNUcKCXWQ
#SmartShopping #Lightbulbs #PersonalFinance
Shopping for Lightbulbs
If you haven’t already upgraded to energy efficient light bulbs in your home, this can be an easy way to save electricity. You may be surprised how much you can save. Incandescent bulbs use about 10…
youtu.be
February 5, 2026 at 4:45 PM
You may have questions about renewable energy and the smart grid, and whether some of the renewable options on the market are right for you. OCC’s fact sheet offers tips to help guide your decision. Quick Facts About Renewable Energy and Smart Grid | Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel
February 4, 2026 at 5:06 PM
Follow OCC on different social media platforms to stay up to date and informed on utility issues!
www.threads.com/@occ4consumers
bsky.app/profile/occ4...
www.facebook.com/OCC4Consumers
February 3, 2026 at 4:30 PM
Even if the groundhog disagrees, heating season probably isn’t over yet. OCC helps Ohio consumers stay informed about energy costs, rate changes, and programs that can help keep heating bills affordable. For energy saving tips: www.occ.ohio.gov/factsheet/co... #HeatingSeason
February 2, 2026 at 3:03 PM
The Aqua Ohio rate case public hearing has a new date and location, 5:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 9 at Columbus Metropolitan Library – New Albany Branch, 200 Market St., New Albany, OH 43054.

Details: www.occ.ohio.gov/factsheet/aq...
January 29, 2026 at 5:03 PM
Ohioans, how much do you really know about energy efficiency and keeping energy bills low? Test your knowledge, you may be surprised! Link: www.occ.ohio.gov/factsheet/ho... #Parma #GroveCity #Lima #Mansfield #Springfield #Hamilton
Home Energy Saver Checklist | Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel
Home Energy Saver Checklist Reduce energy usage and save on utility bills Americans spend more than 80 percent of their utility dollars on heating, cooling, hot water heating, lighting, and…
www.occ.ohio.gov
January 29, 2026 at 3:04 PM
In Ohio, you can’t choose your distribution utility, but you can choose who supplies your electricity or natural gas. Learn more about the different types of energy offers and how to choose the right one for you. youtu.be/uDBgMyiSS20 #Ohio #Cleveland #Cincinnati #Columbus #Youngstown #Dayton
Understanding Your Energy Choices
Generally don't get to choose your local utility in Ohio, the company that delivers your energy through wires or pipes. But you can choose which company supplies the electricity or natural gas that…
youtu.be
January 28, 2026 at 6:31 PM
Currently in Ohio, submetered consumers lack certain protections afforded to direct customers of utilities, including disconnection safeguards and bill-payment assistance programs. Learn more: www.occ.ohio.gov/factsheet/ut... #Apartment
Utility Service for Tenants (Submetering) | Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel
Utility Service for Tenants (Submetering)Tenants should understand how to receive and pay for utility services before signing a lease agreement. This fact sheet from the Office of the Ohio Consumers’…
www.occ.ohio.gov
January 27, 2026 at 4:02 PM
Instead of paying for the actual amount of electric or natural gas used, PIPP Plus customers pay a percentage of their income. For low-income families, it can be a lifesaver. Link: www.occ.ohio.gov/factsheet/pe... #PIPPPlus
January 26, 2026 at 1:30 PM
Winter Storm Fern may cause power outages. Plan ahead to stay safe and know your rights if service is interrupted. #WinterStormFern

Power outage tips and customer rights: www.occ.ohio.gov/factsheet/po...
Power Outage Tips and Customer Rights | Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel
Power Outage Tips and Consumer Rights
www.occ.ohio.gov
January 23, 2026 at 7:20 PM
Did you know? The OCC is a founding member of the National Association of State Utility Consumer Advocates. It’s a chance to share and learn with consumer advocates across the nation.
Watch the origin story of NASUCA on our YouTube channel. youtu.be/_r48IwhFtDk?...
NASUCA - The Origin Story
Presentation Slideshow available at https://www.nasuca.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/NASUCA_The-Original-Story-Panel.Final6-9-25.pdf
youtu.be
January 23, 2026 at 2:45 PM
OCC advocates at the statehouse for laws that promote affordable and reliable utility services for consumers. Learn How Utility Legislation Becomes Law in Ohio: www.occ.ohio.gov/factsheet/ho... #PublicPolicy
January 22, 2026 at 6:04 PM
Showing up matters. OCC regularly attends local meetings to share information and connect with the communities we serve across Ohio. We hope we run into you! Bring OCC to your group: www.occ.ohio.gov/content/spea...
January 21, 2026 at 5:31 PM
OCC’s Five-year fight pays off: PUCO imposes a $250 million penalty on FirstEnergy after HB 6 Scandal. $180 million of that is going back to FirstEnergy consumers, and more if a proposed settlement is approved.
See OCC filings to protect consumers in related PUCO cases: www.occ.ohio.gov/filings
January 20, 2026 at 6:05 PM