Commission recommends slashing AEP’s proposed rate hike

By J.D. Davidson
The Center Square

Nearly six months after its last major electricity rate increase in Ohio, AEP Ohio continues to wait for approval on another rate hike.

The Public Utility Commission of Ohio on Friday announced public hearings throughout the state for December to hear public comments on AEP’s application to raise rates by another 2.14%.

That hike would add nearly $4 to a monthly bill to a customer who uses 100kW a month. The commission recommended reducing that increase to .80%, or $1.47 a month.

Hearings are scheduled Dec. 3 in Zanesville, Dec. 4 in Columbus, Dec. 5 in Marietta, Dec. 8 in Findlay and Dec. 9 in Columbus.

AEP Ohio has the largest number of electricity customers in the state, serving more than 1.5 million customers.

In June, the commission warned customers to check their bill after AEP Ohio implemented a significant hike that averaged $27 per 100kW used per month. That hike was separate from other rate hikes that went into effect in 2024 and the current proposed increase.

At the same time, a separate 14% distribution increase was added to the base rate.

“It is important for consumers to be aware of pricing changes impacting their electricity bills this summer,” commission Chairwoman Jenifer French said in a news release in late April. “The PUCO is available to assist Ohioans to understand their electric bill, and what options they have to manage their bills year-round.” 

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