GAHANNA, Ohio, January 18, 2025 — Central Ohio is under an extreme cold watch, with temperatures forecasted to sink to single digits during the day and as low as 20 degrees below zero at night. Extreme weather can lead to significantly increased energy demand, placing pressure on the electric grid. AEP Ohio, an American Electric Power (Nasdaq: AEP) company, is closely monitoring the weather and is providing information to help customers better prepare for winter weather.
AEP Ohio works throughout the year to prepare the electric grid and customers for the unexpected, including extreme weather. From trimming trees away from power lines to updating equipment and adding smart technology, crews work year-round to proactively maintain and improve the system to help prevent power outages.
When it comes to managing energy supply and demand, AEP Ohio is part of the PJM territory, which covers 13 states and the District of Columbia. PJM is a non-profit entity that constantly monitors energy demand. PJM does not own power plants or power lines, but it coordinates with companies that do across its territory, and acts as the “air-traffic control” for power by directing power produced at 1,300 generation sites to meet demand.
In response to forecasted extreme cold temperatures, PJM has issued a Cold Weather Alert, indicating that power generation suppliers should be ready to respond to increased demand for energy.
AEP Ohio is responsible for ensuring power that comes from those generation suppliers is delivered to the distribution customers we serve. Learn more about how AEP Ohio works with PJM.
“Our team continuously monitors the weather to assess and prepare for potential impacts on our customers,” said Matt Bennett, director of operations for AEP Ohio. “When weather forecasts predict extreme cold, it is a great time to make sure your emergency kit is up-to-date and to talk with your family to review emergency preparedness plans for the winter. Check in with friends and neighbors to be sure they have a plan, too.”
Winter Weather Safety & Preparedness Reminders
- Assemble an emergency preparedness kit. It should include (at minimum) non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, fresh batteries, a battery-powered radio or television, a portable cell phone charging bank, a blanket or sleeping bag, a first-aid kit, cash and any necessary medications. If you have pets, be sure your emergency kit also includes food and any medication they need.
- Important Note: AEP Ohio strongly encourages customers with life-supporting medical equipment to have a backup power source and an alternate plan in the event of a power outage.
- Remember, all downed lines are dangerous. They carry an electric current that can cause serious or even fatal injuries. If you encounter a fallen wire, keep yourself and others away, and call 911 or AEP Ohio immediately.
- Heat your home safely with tips from the Ohio State Fire Marshal. If using a space heater, place it on a hard, level surface at least three feet away from anything flammable such as curtains and bedding, and out of high-traffic areas. Make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are installed and functioning properly throughout your home and never leave a space heater running when a room is unoccupied.
- Stay connected and make sure your contact information is current. You can enroll in text alerts, and follow us on Facebook or X. Visit AEPOhio.com/Account to update your email address and phone number so we can send you important messages about your electric service (including outage restoration information).
Preparing for Winter Bills
Extremely cold, winter weather can also send furnaces into overtime — causing energy usage and electric bills to go up. Our team is here to help if you’re facing financial hardship.
Find the right bill assistance program for you with this easy, two-minute survey, visit AEPOhio.com/Assistance or reach out to our Customer Solutions Center at 800-672-2231.
About AEP Ohio
AEP Ohio is based in Gahanna, Ohio, and is a unit of American Electric Power. AEP Ohio provides electricity to 1.5 million customers. News and information about AEP Ohio can be found at AEPOhio.com.
Our team at American Electric Power is committed to improving our customers' lives with reliable, affordable power. We are investing $54 billion from 2025 through 2029 to enhance service for customers and support the growing energy needs of our communities. Our nearly 16,000 employees operate and maintain the nation's largest electric transmission system with 40,000 line miles, along with more than
225,000 miles of distribution lines to deliver energy to 5.6 million customers in 11 states. AEP also is one of the nation's largest electricity producers with approximately 29,000 megawatts of diverse generating capacity. We are focused on safety and operational excellence, creating value for our stakeholders and bringing opportunity to our service territory through economic development and community engagement. Our family of companies includes AEP Ohio, AEP Texas, Appalachian Power (in Virginia and West Virginia), AEP Appalachian Power (in Tennessee), Indiana Michigan Power, Kentucky Power, Public Service Company of Oklahoma, and Southwestern Electric Power Company (in Arkansas, Louisiana, east Texas and the Texas Panhandle). AEP also owns AEP Energy, which provides innovative competitive energy solutions nationwide. AEP is headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. For more information, visit aep.com.