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1. What is energy aggregation?

Under governmental aggregation, local officials bring citizens together to gain group buying power for the purchase of competitively prices energy from a retail generation supplier certified by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO).

2. How is my community able to choose a certified generation supplier on my behalf?

Residents voted to authorize the community to contract for energy supply for both electric and natural gas on their behalf.

3. What do I need to do if I want to be included in governmental aggregation?

You do not need to do anything to receive the terms and conditions offered under this program. You may choose to remain in the aggregation group and begin receiving the new rate by simply not returning the opt-out form.

4. If I join my community’s governmental aggregation program, who will deliver my power, read my meter, bill me, and respond to emergencies, such as power outages?

Your electric and natural gas utility (Duke Energy) will be responsible for the delivery of power to your home or business. Since Duke Energy still owns the wires and poles that deliver power to you, it will continue to read your meter and restore power after an outage. Duke Energy will continue to provide billing and payment services to you as well.

5. What does “opt out” mean?

“Opt out” means that you can decide not to participate in your community’s governmental aggregation program. By returning the opt out form, which is included in the mailings, by the opt out deadline you will not be enrolled as a customer. You will remain with Duke Energy.

6. What happens if I do not send in the opt out form?

If you do not return the opt out form by the opt out deadline, you will be included in your community’s governmental aggregation program.

7. Can I opt out of the program at a later date?

Yes, you may leave the aggregation program at any time and no early termination fee will be applied.

8. What are my energy supply choices if I decide to opt out?

You can remain with your current utility, which will continue to supply your generation as it always has, or you can shop for an alternative generation supplier.

9. Why did I receive a letter that asks me to opt-in?

Because all residents of a community may not be automatically eligible for the opt out aggregation program because they have already contracted with an alternative generation supplier, those residents would not receive an opt-out letter. Instead, those residents may receive an “opt-in” letter, also known as an endorsement letter, which lets the resident know that the City is beginning an aggregation program and they have the ability to join during this period of time. All such notices include the disclaimer that the resident should contact their current alternative supplier to determine the terms and conditions, and if they would incur an early termination fee for switching to a new supplier.

10. Are all residents of the community automatically eligible for the opt out aggregation program?

No. In order to be included you must purchase your energy directly from the utility company; in other words, if you have already contracted with an alternative generation supplier, you may not be eligible. You must also be current on your utility bill payments. PIPP customers also do not qualify.

11. Can I enroll even if I currently purchase my electric and/or natural gas from another supplier?

Yes, however, your supplier may charge an early termination fee. All residents should check the terms and conditions of their current contract for more information.

12. What are the benefits of energy aggregation?

Energy aggregation has proven to reduce electric and/or natural gas rates for many communities in Ohio, including nearby Indian Hill and Symmes Township. The savings are achieved by negotiating a lower rate for energy than what an average utility account holder would otherwise pay without energy aggregation.

13. What does energy aggregation cost the City?

There are no direct costs associated with the running of an energy aggregation program for the City. The chief cost to the City is staff time dedicated to fielding questions from residents about the program.

14. Is there a renewable energy option?

Yes, Energy Harbor, LLC provides an option for residents to select a 100% renewable power (green energy) offer. Residents must call the supplier to request it.