What do you say when a friend, family member or neighbor asks a question about a specific topic pertaining to FirstEnergy? Take for instance the news media reporting that FirstEnergy Ohio customers will see higher electric prices this summer.

What you need to know:

You may have seen news coverage referencing higher electric prices for Ohioans this summer in response to a recent auction to secure generation for non-shopping customers. Ohio customers can shop and choose a competitive energy supplier who can offer a lower price for generation than their Ohio utility. For customers that choose not to shop, our Ohio utilities are required to buy electricity for them, and the rate is called the Price to Compare (PTC).

The price of the electricity we purchase has risen recently due to several factors affecting generation, including natural gas prices. While we don’t know what the final PTC will be yet, we do expect non-shopping customers will see an increase in generation rates beginning in June. Our Ohio electric companies do not profit from these charges and the PTC will not impact distribution charges.

Customers in Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania are also able to shop for a competitive energy supplier, and we expect PTC increases in Maryland and New Jersey too. West Virginia customers are not currently able to shop for generation.

Customers in shopping states may be able to pay less each month by selecting a competitive energy supplier that offers a rate lower than the PTC. It is common for energy generation offers to be mailed to a home or business, including offers for community aggregation where available. Now is a great time for customers to review their options so they can select a rate or program that works best.

Customers can visit firstenergycorp.com/customerchoice to learn more about the shopping process, including what to consider when shopping for a competitive energy supplier.

To search for a licensed competitive energy supplier by state:

• Public Utilities Commission of Ohio
• Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission
• Maryland Public Service Commission
• New Jersey Board of Public Utilities

For customers struggling to pay their bill, FirstEnergy offers payment options and helpful assistance programs.

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