Duke Energy Ohio and Columbia Gas of Ohio are seeking future rate increases as Butler County households enter the winter heating season.
The Ohio Consumers’ Counsel says Duke’s electric distribution proposal would raise a typical residential bill by about $8.32 a month. If approved by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, the increase would take effect in 2027.
Distribution charges pay for local delivery infrastructure, including poles and wires. The consumer advocate says previously approved infrastructure charges would continue.
The agency lists public hearings at 6 p.m. Dec. 1 at MidPointe Library, 125 S. Broad St., Middletown. It also lists hearings Dec. 10 at 12:30 p.m. at Cincinnati City Hall, 801 Plum St., and 6 p.m. at Hamilton Municipal Building, 345 High St.
Columbia Gas of Ohio says its requested rate change would affect bills beginning in January 2028. The company says it seeks funding for pipeline modernization, system reliability and technology upgrades.
These requests concern future rates, rather than approved increases for this winter.
Winter spending and local assistance
The U.S. Energy Information Administration’s October outlook projects average Midwest natural-gas spending of $613 from November through March. That is 10% below the previous winter.
The federal forecast is a regional average for homes using gas as their main heating fuel. It includes uses beyond space heating and does not predict an individual household’s bill.
According to SELF’s Winter Crisis Program, eligible Ohio households can seek help from Nov. 1 through March 31. Income must be at or below 175% of federal poverty guidelines.
Qualifying situations include threatened disconnection, disconnected service, establishing service and a low bulk-fuel supply. SELF also lists assistance for certain payment-plan defaults and initial payments.
SELF’s application instructions provide online, paper and telephone appointment options. Applicants need current utility bills, income documentation and information about household members.
Questions about paperwork can be left at 513-664-0173. SELF lists its office at 415 S. Monument Ave., Hamilton.
