PUCO issues Special Reconnect Order

VW independent staff/submitted information

COLUMBUS — The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has issued its Special Reconnect Order for the upcoming heating season. The Special Reconnect Order helps Ohioans served by PUCO-regulated utilities reconnect or maintain electric and natural gas service during the winter heating season between October 16, 2023 and April 15, 2024.

Any residential customer of a PUCO-regulated electric or natural gas company may take advantage of the provisions contained in the order once per winter heating season. Last winter heating season more than 198,000 Ohioans used the Special Reconnect Order.

“The Commission issued its Special Reconnect Order which serves as an important lifeline for Ohioans,” stated PUCO Chair Jenifer French. “Those facing disconnection from their home heating source can use the PUCO’s Special Reconnect Order to ensure they stay connected during the upcoming heating season.”

Under the Special Reconnect Order, customers must pay the utility no more than $175 plus any applicable reconnection charge which cannot exceed $36. If the utility’s reconnect charge is greater than $36, the balance above $36 may be charged to the customer on the customer’s next monthly bill.

The Special Reconnect Order also applies to customers seeking to establish new electric or natural gas service provided they are served by PUCO-regulated utilities. Rather than paying the full security deposit that may be required for new service, customers can pay up to $175 and the balance above $175 may be charged to the customer on the customer’s next monthly bill.

There is no income eligibility requirement to use the Special Reconnect Order; however, customers who are at or below 175 percent of the federal income guidelines may apply for assistance through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) winter crisis program to pay the $175 amount.

Anyone who would like to take advantage of the Special Reconnect Order should contact their electric or natural gas utility between October 16 and April 15.

Utility representatives will explain the order and set up a payment plan to address any remaining balance after the $175 has been applied. A list of PUCO-regulated utilities is available on the PUCO website.

More information about energy assistance programs and ways to save on home heating bills this winter is available on the PUCO’s website.

Customers who have questions about PUCO’s Special Reconnect Order may contact the PUCO at 800.686.PUCO (7826) or visit PUCO’s website at www.PUCO.ohio.gov.