Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel

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Aggregation Process

What steps are involved in opt-in energy aggregation?

Before adopting the plan, the local government must hold two public hearings.

First, the local government must adopt an ordinance or resolution authorizing aggregation and specifying that opt-in aggregation is the model to be used.

Second, the local government must develop a plan of operation and governance for the aggregation program. Before adopting the plan, the local government must hold two public hearings on the plan. Before the first hearing, the local government must publish notice of the hearings once a week for two consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation in the jurisdiction. The notice must summarize the proposed plan and state the time, date and location of each hearing. The plan of operation and governance should outline a procedure for individuals who wish to opt in to the pool.

Third, the local government, either by itself or jointly with other local governments, must secure bids, negotiate with suppliers and obtain a price for energy service.

Fourth, the local government will have to promote its plan and encourage customer enrollment.

What information needs to be included in the ordinance or resolution for opt-in energy aggregation?

Under the opt-in model, the ordinance or resolution does not need to be approved by the voters, so the ordinance or resolution does not need to contain language that certifies the ordinance or resolution to the board of elections. The ordinance or resolution must contain language referencing the corresponding opt-in Ohio Revised Code section, that the local government is authorized to negotiate and make arrangements with a supplier for the purchase of energy and a statement outlining the procedure for holding public hearings.

Are there different procedures for municipalities, townships and counties?

The procedure, as outlined in the law, is the same for municipalities, townships and counties. Municipalities may aggregate on behalf of their incorporated areas, while townships can aggregate within their boundaries. County governments can aggregate their unincorporated areas.

Do local governments need to be certified by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO)?

Yes. The governmental aggregator and its chosen supplier must be certified by the PUCO. Applications for electric and gas certification must be filed separately. The supplier must also register with the local utility or utilities serving the pool.

What if there is a conflict between a governmental aggregator and a utility?

Governmental aggregators, suppliers and utility companies are required to act in good faith regarding aggregation issues. Any party may petition the PUCO to resolve any conflicts or issues that cannot be worked out between the parties.

Which communities have decided to aggregate?

The OCC has developed an online resource to provide you with up-to-date information about which communities have passed ballot initiatives. An interactive map can provide you with a list of aggregated communities in your county. If the community has chosen a supplier to serve its residents, the name of the company and a link to its Web site are also provided. The OCC’s aggregation map can be found here. (See the sample Web site screens below.)