How an Advocate Saves Ohioans Money: “For every $1 allocated to our office, it it creates $29 of savings.” – Kathryn Metz, Senior Outreach & Education Specialist, Office of the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel

Empowering Ohio Utility Consumers: Insights and Advice from the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel

When it comes to paying utility bills, confusion and frustration are common emotions for Ohioans. Rising rates, complex billing breakdowns, and attempts at deregulation have left many consumers wondering how to protect themselves and their wallets.

The Mission and Impact of the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel

Since its establishment in 1976, the OCC has served as an independent voice for residential utility consumers in Ohio. Kathryn Metz, Senior Outreach & Education Specialist, Office of the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel explains that the OCC exists because individual Ohioans usually don’t possess the time, expertise, or resources to advocate for fair rates in highly complex proceedings where utility companies argue for rate increases. The OCC was created to fill that advocacy gap, ensuring Ohio’s residents have representation, especially when profit-driven investor-owned utilities seek more from consumers.

The impact? Billions of dollars saved for Ohio consumers, robust advocacy for utility assistance programs (especially for low-income households), and ongoing education efforts about consumer rights.

Notably, the OCC isn’t funded by the state’s general revenue, but rather by a small assessment on consumers’ utility bills—about $2.68 for every $100 spent—offering an impressive $29 in savings for every dollar allocated to the agency.

Understanding Ohio Utility Bills and Deregulation

Have you ever been baffled by your electric bill? You’re not alone. Metz highlights the partial deregulation of Ohio’s energy market, which separates the “delivery” (about 60% of the bill) from “supply” (about 40%). Delivery, such as maintaining lines and infrastructure, operates as a monopoly—if you’re in central Ohio, you’re with AEP, for example. The supply portion, meanwhile, is open to competition, which can allow consumers to pick different suppliers.

However, savings aren’t guaranteed. Studies and OCC findings show that most Ohioans save more by sticking to their utility’s default offer than by shopping suppliers, though recent price increases may shift this balance for savvy shoppers. Metz emphasizes the importance of regularly checking your bill and understanding supplier contracts to prevent surprise rate hikes.

Assistance Programs for Those in Need

Rising utility costs disproportionately impact vulnerable Ohio residents, especially seniors on fixed incomes. Luckily, there are robust programs in place. Metz spotlights both federal and utility-funded programs, most notably the HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program), which offers one-time credits and specialized summer crisis support. Additional components can assist with AC repairs or even supply fans, helping at-risk households remain cool and safe during heatwaves.

Metz encourages anyone struggling with utility bills to look to local agencies, community action groups, and the OCC’s own resources for guidance and potential relief.

Protecting Yourself from Scams and Unfair Practices

Unfortunately, with mounting rates come increasing scams. Metz shares harrowing stories of consumers locked into predatory contracts by aggressive marketers or “slammed” (switched suppliers without their consent) after handing out personal information. Her advice? Never share your account information casually, treat utility account numbers as you would a Social Security number, and beware of marketers who promise deals at your door or in the grocery store.

Consumers can also call their utility provider and ask to be placed on a “do not contact” list and should report predatory or fraudulent activity to the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio.

Advocacy in Action: From House Bill 6 to Data Centers

Metz discusses OCC’s forceful opposition to controversial legislation like Ohio House Bill 6, which forced consumers to subsidize unprofitable coal plants—sometimes even outside Ohio. The fight for fair representation continues as OCC pushes lawmakers to ensure that massive energy users, like new data centers, pay their fair share for the required infrastructure, rather than shifting costs onto ordinary consumers.

Stay Informed and Empowered

Kathryn Metz’s central message? Stay vigilant and informed. Review your bills, know your rights, and leverage OCC’s wealth of educational materials and outreach events to stay ahead. With rising costs and a changing energy landscape, every Ohioan benefits from being a smart, proactive consumer—and knowing that OCC has their back.

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The views and opinions expressed by the experts interviewed on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcast hosts or any affiliated organizations. The information provided in these interviews is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified professionals for specific advice or information related to their individual circumstances. The podcast host and producers do not endorse or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information provided by the experts interviewed. Listener discretion is advised.

Copyright 2025 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson