The Coshocton Tribune
by Jessie Balmert, Gannett Ohio
COLUMBUS – In an unprecedented move, two energy companies were guaranteed profits for eight years by treating customers like investors to keep Conesville and other power plants operating across Ohio.
The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio in a 5-0 vote Thursday approved plans from Akron-based FirstEnergy and Columbus-based American Electric Power that require customers to subsidize aging plants. Consumers would act like investors. If energy prices are low, customers would pay more to subsidize the plants. If prices rise, consumers could see credits on their bills.
Ohio Consumers’ Counsel initially estimated the plans would …