COLUMBUS, OHIO (Dec. 18, 2019) – The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) today issued draft rules for public comment regarding minimum gas service standards. Comments are due Jan. 17, 2020 with reply comments due Jan. 31, 2020.
As part of its regular five-year review, the Commission issued proposed rules for public comment. Among other things, PUCO staff-proposed rules:
- Consolidate minimum gas service rules into one chapter within the Ohio Administrative Code
- Establish a dedicated telephone number for the PUCO to use when escalating consumer complaints
- Add a price to compare statement on customer bills and establish which charges may appear on customer bills. The price to compare is a tool to help customers compare the utilities’ default rate with offers from competitive retail natural gas suppliers.
- Allow customers to place a block on their account to prevent being switched to a different supplier without their consent
The PUCO regulates the rates customers pay for natural gas distribution, monitors the market-based rates charged for natural gas and ensures that companies provide quality, safe and reliable natural gas service. More information about natural gas service in Ohio can be found in the natural gas customers’ bill of rights.
The Commission is seeking comments on the proposed changes from interested parties and the public by Jan. 17, 2020. The public can provide comments on the “Contact Us” section on the PUCO website. Correspondences should reference case number 19-1429-GA-ORD.
A copy of today’s Commission entry and proposed rule changes is available on the PUCO website at PUCO.ohio.gov. Click on the link to Docketing Information System (DIS) and search for case 19-1429-GA-ORD. More information on the PUCO rulemaking process is available on the PUCO website.