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Contact: Anthony Rodriguez
(614) 466-9547

OCC: Collaborative group of experts develop more meaningful consumer programs

COLUMBUS, Ohio – February 9, 2010 – A bill introduced today by State Rep. Ronald V. Gerberry (D-Austintown) would create a group of experts required to review electric and natural gas utility energy efficiency programs in Ohio.

House Bill 443 would require electric and natural gas utilities to have their energy efficiency programs reviewed by an advisory group, led by an independent facilitator, before filing the programs with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio for approval.

“The Office of the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel (OCC) supports Rep. Gerberry’s proposal to create a statewide group that ensures a transparent and collaborative process takes place to create costeffective and consumer-friendly energy efficiency programs throughout the state,” Consumers’ Counsel Janine Migden-Ostrander said.

“Collaborative processes, where everyone is interested in developing meaningful programs, are much more effective than utilities developing programs on their own. In the end, the successful development of energy efficiency programs that give consumers choices and ultimately save them money is what matters.”

Examples of effective energy efficiency programs that are providing consumers with energy savings and benefits are: American Electric Power’s in-store credit for compact fluorescent light bulbs; Duke Energy’s comprehensive home energy audit; and Columbia Gas of Ohio’s rebate program for programmable thermostats and efficient showerheads.

About the Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel

The Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel (OCC), the residential utility consumer advocate, represents the interests of 4.5 million households in proceedings before state and federal regulators and in the courts. The state agency also educates consumers about electric, natural gas, telephone and water issues and resolves complaints from individuals. To receive utility information, brochures, schedule a presentation or file a utility complaint, residential consumers may call 1-877-PICKOCC (1-877-742-5622) toll free in Ohio or visit the OCC website at www.pickocc.org.