PUCO approves AEP-Ohio energy efficiency plan

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) adopted an agreement Wednesday to allow AEP-Ohio to continue and expand its energy efficiency and peak demand reduction programs through 2020.

AEP-Ohio will offer a variety of programs to assist residential and business customers in reducing their energy demand. Programs include efficient product rebates and incentives, appliance recycling programs, in-home energy audits, home weatherization assistance, and various educational and training programs.

The Commission also adopted a $110 million annual program cost cap to protect against potential increases in the cost of energy efficiency and peak demand reduction programs.

On December 9, 2016 AEP-Ohio and 13 interested parties signed a stipulation resolving all outstanding issues and recommended Commission approval. The stipulation was signed by AEP-Ohio, PUCO staff, Environmental Defense Fund, Environmental Law & Policy Center, Interstate Gas Supply, Inc., Kroger, Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission, Natural Resources Defense Council, Ohio Energy Group, Ohio Environmental Council, Ohio Farm Bureau Federation, Ohio Hospital Association, Ohio Manufacturers’ Association and Ohio Partners for Affordable Energy.

The PUCO is responsible for evaluating electric distribution utilities’ energy efficiency and peak demand portfolio programs, which must be cost-effective in reducing energy usage or peak demand consistent with state policy. Utilities are required by law to meet certain energy-reducing benchmarks annually.

A copy of the Commission opinion and order will be available at www.PUCO.ohio.gov.