Savings Strategies for the New Year for Ohio Customers

Image with piggy bank and coins depicting saving money in 2024

Is using energy wisely – while staying comfortable – one of your New Year’s resolutions? We all want to be as energy efficient as possible, but you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to help you get started with programs, tools and strategies that can keep you on track in 2024.

Home Energy Analyzer: Tailored to You

Imagine receiving personalized ideas to save energy and money. The Home Energy Analyzer is a free tool that helps you better understand how you’re using energy and gives you guidance to optimize your usage and stay comfortable. Simply log into or sign up for an online account and answer a few questions to unlock tools and tips that can help you save money right now and throughout the new year.

Shop for Electricity: Take Charge of Your Energy Costs

In Ohio, you have the power to shop for electricity. That means you can choose an energy supplier that could help you save money. To take advantage of this, you first need to understand how your bill works.

When you look at your bill, you’ll find charges divided into two parts: a charge from your electric company for delivering electricity to your home and a separate charge for the actual electricity you use. For the second component, the generation charge, you can shop and choose a competitive energy supplier who can offer the best deal for electricity.

If you are not served by a competitive energy supplier, your electric company is required to purchase electricity for you, and it is provided to you at cost at the rate listed as the Price to Compare (PTC) on your monthly bill. You may be able to pay much less each month by selecting a supplier that offers a rate lower than the PTC. If you choose not to shop, your local electric company will continue to provide electricity to you at the rate listed as the PTC on your bill.

Keep in mind your rate may change throughout the year based on the terms and conditions of the supplier you choose. You’ll want to review your options carefully to consider the type of rate (fixed or variable), contract length and any fees or termination charges that may apply.

Now is a great time to review your options so you can select the rate or program that works best for you. Visit firstenergycorp.com/customerchoice to learn more about the shopping process. To search for a licensed supplier, visit the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio.

Appliance Rebates: Your Ticket to Green Savings

Are you in the market for a new refrigerator, freezer, washer or dryer? Look for one with the ENERGY STAR® label. This certification means your home appliance has passed rigorous tests to ensure the product meets the strictest standards in energy efficiency. Plus, you may be eligible for additional savings with a rebate.

See if You Qualify for Eligibility-Based Programs

As the seasons change, it's essential to keep your home comfortable while staying in budget. The program Community Connections may be able to help. Some income-eligible customers may benefit from no-cost home improvements and upgrades including attic and wall insulation, appliance testing, water heater inspection, caulking, energy-saving light bulbs and energy education. See if you qualify.

Optimizing Your EV: The Road to a Greener Ride

Whether you're already cruising in an electric vehicle (EV) or thinking about making the switch, EV Driven is your go-to guide for optimizing your EV journey.

EV Driven can help you answer important questions including:

What electric car models are out there and what do they cost?
What are the different kinds of charging?
How do I find public charging stations near me?
Are there rebates, incentives or EV charging rate programs available for me?
How much money can I save with an EV vs. a gas-powered vehicle?

Head to EV Driven and click the name of your local electric company to get started.

Comfortable Home, Happy New Year

As we head toward tax season, you can also look for federal programs that offer tax credits for making your home more energy efficient. This may include improvements like installing or replacing heat pumps, insulation and more. Speak with your tax preparer about your eligibility and how you can take advantage of these programs.

We hope these resources, programs and tools allow you to take control of your energy use and costs in 2024. For more tips and resources to use energy wisely this winter and all year, visit firstenergycorp.com/saveenergy.

CONTACT: Brittany Al Dawood, (330) 703-5709