PUCO Approves $275 Million Restitution Deal With FirstEnergy Over HB 6 Violations

Overview

• The approved settlement directs $249 million in credits to customers over three billing cycles, plus $20 million for low‑income programs, a $6.6 million refund with roughly $6.2 million in interest for improper charges, and $5 million to the Retail Energy Supply Association.
• PUCO said the order resolves four investigations and replaces potential fines with direct consumer restitution as all parties withdraw rehearing requests.
• Low‑income support includes $10 million for a two‑year bill payment assistance program for households at or below 300% of federal poverty guidelines and $10 million for a three‑year weatherization and efficiency program prioritizing several high‑poverty counties.
• A separate administrative case continues, with FirstEnergy’s Ohio utilities bearing the burden to show no customer funds supported HB 6 efforts, written testimony due in February, and an evidentiary hearing set for February 24.
• The settlement builds on PUCO’s November 19, 2025 findings that FirstEnergy’s utilities violated Ohio law, increasing consumer compensation beyond the roughly $250.7 million previously ordered.