Consumers' Counsel Message

The year 2006 marked the 30th anniversary of the Office of the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel (OCC). It was in 1976 that U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown, who then was a freshman state representative, brought forward a bill in the Ohio General Assembly that would create an office specifically dedicated to serving as an advocate and representing the interests of residential utility customers in regulatory proceedings and in the courts. In the wake of an energy crisis and rising utility prices, the legislature had the foresight to understand the need for an office that would protect, educate and advocate for residential utility customers.

This past year had special significance to me because I had the pleasure of serving as a staff member and later as a young attorney during the early days of the office – from 1977 through 1984 – only to come back to lead the agency as Consumers’ Counsel in 2004.

Even though the utility environment has changed greatly over the past three decades, the OCC continues its mission to advocate for fair and reasonable rates, ensure that consumer protections are in place, and support the development of a competitive marketplace that provides consumers with a variety of suppliers and service options.

Through our advocacy over the past year, the OCC has received favorable rulings on three electric rate plan cases at the Supreme Court of Ohio; helped reduce the maximum amount companies could increase the price of basic local telephone service; supported implementation of consumer protection rules for natural gas customers; and negotiated a green power option for customers of Duke Energy. Also, the OCC moved forward a proposal that could help design an affordable and environmentally sound energy future for Ohio.

It remains a prominent part of our goals to continue presenting options for improving the overall package of utility services available to residential consumers. A sustainable and affordable energy future must keep prices reasonable and establish programs to empower consumers to manage their energy usage. The OCC has proposed that Ohio adopt a diversified energy plan, which would open the door to relying on alternative fuel sources and energy efficiency along with traditional sources of supply. By supporting this type of plan, the OCC is encouraging the development of the necessary tools and options to benefit customers in the short and long run. This is critical to fulfilling our vision of informed consumers who can take control of their energy usage.

Throughout the process of accomplishing our mission and vision, the OCC is dedicated to actively working with industry leaders, policy makers and other stakeholders to facilitate a healthier utility environment for consumers. I have fond memories of the benefits we have achieved in the past and I look forward to the work we will accomplish in the years ahead.

Signature of Janine Migden-Ostrander

 

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