Below is a snapshot of a message from Marc Reitter that was shared with customers about the generation supply rate increase and who will be impacted. The message was distributed on May 31, 2023.
Dear Valued Customer,
We've shared information over the past several months about an upcoming change to electric bills for some customers, but misinformation is causing confusion. Two separate things are happening as a result of the utility regulatory process. I want to better explain how this may impact you.
First, as we've previously shared, recent auctions for the generation supply portion of some electric bills have driven costs up. The auction results are not within the control of AEP Ohio but will impact customers who receive their generation supply through our Standard Service Offer (SSO). Customers who are part of a municipal aggregation, participate in the Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) or shop in their individual capacity will not see this same increase. This goes into effect in June lasting through May 2024. More information and how you can determine your generation supplier by looking at your most recent bill can be found at AEPOhio.com/BillChanges.
Separately - and unrelated to the recent generation supply auction results - we filed a reliability and resiliency investment plan with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) in January 2023. Our proposal is currently under review with the PUCO and will go through a very thorough and transparent process. If approved, any impact to customers' bills wouldn't take effect until the summer of 2024.
Ohio has been experiencing tremendous economic growth - and it's not slowing down. Our job is to meet these growing needs and proactively protect our energy grid against damage caused by more frequent, intense weather events. The reliability and resiliency proposal would allow us to reinforce and improve the grid so we're ready for the electricity demands of the future.
You depend on us for an essential service and we take that responsibility to heart every day. Let me assure you: When severe weather strikes or whenever the lights go out, our lineworkers will be there to restore power as quickly and safely as possible - no matter the condition. They're some of the best in the industry, rising to the occasion each day to keep your power on.
We must continue to reinvest in our infrastructure, in our people, and in our communities - all in service of meeting your expectations.
If you have questions or are experiencing financial hardship, we can help and I encourage you to reach out to our team.
Sincerely,
Marc Reitter
President and Chief Operating Officer