As John Funk discussed on February 17th in the Plain Dealer, some all-electric homeowners in northern Ohio are suing over a 2009 change in FirstEnergy’s electric rates. You may read the article at the following link: All-electric owners sue FirstEnergy over rates
The article mentions that FirstEnergy has proposed to the PUCO partly restoring the all-electric discounts and phasing in increases over the next eight years. We see this proposed 8-year phase-in period as an opportunity for all parties to work together to lower electric consumption This could be a long-term solution to skyrocketing energy prices. It could be a win-win for all. It would be a win for the utilities because they can show a reduction in consumption that will help them meet the Ohio legislature’s energy efficiency mandates. And, of course, it is a win for consumers because they will have lower electric bills.
For example, the utility could provide funding for residential energy efficiency projects such as tank-less water heaters, energy audits, geothermal heating and cooling systems, etc. Then, the customers can be well prepared to handle increasing costs. For more residential energy saving ideas, see our report: Pursuit of a Net Zero Energy Home Feb 17 2010 We see this as an excellent opportunity for the utilities and customers alike, working together, to control energy consumption and fulfill the requirements.
