Ohio utilities ordered to reconnect delinquent users by Oct. 15

Ohio utilities ordered to reconnect delinquent users by Oct. 15

jcocklin@vindy.com

YOUNGSTOWN

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, which regulates electric and gas companies, has issued its annual reconnect order to energy suppliers across the state.

By Oct. 15, electric and gas service that was disconnected during the spring and summer months must be turned back on under Ohio law.

“There are some people, for whatever their financial circumstances, that have service disconnected because of nonpayment,” said Neil Durbin, spokesman for Dominion East Ohio, a gas company serving Northeast Ohio. “As the winter months approach and the weather grows colder these assistance programs become vital.”

A wide range of services exist, but for those who have had their power or gas disconnected, the PUCO order requires that they enter a payment plan to bring down their debt and get back on track.