Ohio Lawmakers Reconsider Energy Rebates
Posted onEnergy Rebates Head to Ohio Senate
After years of customers not having any kind of rebate through their power companies, that may be changing. The Ohio House recently passed House Bill 79. The bill restores some of the Ohio energy rebates removed by House Bill 6. The new bill now passes to the Ohio Senate for further debate. Of course, there are those who oppose the bill and costs that come with it. What will happen with your energy bills while Ohio lawmakers reconsider energy rebates?
Consumer Groups Oppose House Bill 79
The Northwest Ohio Aggregation Coalition (NOAC) offers some valid points against House Bill 79. For one thing, NOAC argues that renters are less likely to buy energy saving appliances get the rebates. Nevertheless, they will need to pay $1.50 on their monthly bills to fund the program. But bill supporters argue that all customers will get two chances to opt-out of the rebate program.
Meanwhile, the Ohio Consumer Council (OCC) also opposes House Bill 79. They say that existing federal programs already offer energy efficiency rebates. As a result, Ohio energy consumers should not pay additional charges or bother with power companies rules.
The Cost Of Energy Rebates
Of course, the biggest question is how much could this rebate program cost consumers. Currently, residential customers pay about $1.50 per month. That adds up to around $18 per year. Meanwhile, businesses or farms would pay around $7.50 per month. That adds up to about $90 per year. Depending on your utility company, this could come on the back of more fee increases that have already been approved. As a result, this could add more hardship to Ohioans struggling to stay on top of their bills.
How Do Ohio Energy Rebate Compare?
Other deregulated states like Pennsylvania allow utilities to offer their own rebate and incentive programs. Ohio utilities once offered great rebate programs as well. For now, HB79 does not offer a perfect fix. Yet, that state's utilities have long been urging to update and repair the grid. That's due to the state's rising demand for power. But, energy efficiency incentives that lower demand could help prevent bigger problems in the future.
Energy Rebates On The Horizon
While House Bill 79 is unlikely to be passed by the Senate soon, it does seem likely. So, if you don't expect the rebate program to help you, remember that you will be able to opt out. In the meantime, don't wait for an Ohio rebate if you're shopping for new appliances. There are plenty of federal energy saving rebates available. Be sure to check over the rebate rules so you can get the best deal. Remember, you can use different ways to reduce your electricity usage (and bill). The best place to learn more is at www.ohenergyratings.com
