Groups want to keep Ohio energy efficiency laws

Say utility trying to repeal them

5/26/2013

COLUMBUS — Small business and consumer groups say a utility is trying to eliminate Ohio’s energy efficiency laws they say benefit everyone.

The Small Business Majority, Moms Clean Air Force, and the Ohio Environmental Council are campaigning to stop what they say are a FirstEnergy subsidiary’s efforts to repeal Ohio’s energy efficiency laws. The groups want Ohioans to pledge not to become FirstEnergy Solutions customers until the company changes its policies.

The groups say utilities’ efficiency programs save customers money through home energy audits, appliance rebates and other incentives, and lower harmful emissions.

First Energy Solutions spokeswoman Diane Francis says the utility doesn’t oppose voluntary efficiency programs, but wants legislators to review whether they should remain mandatory.

Francis says only a small percentage of ratepayers take advantage of the programs.