When the concept behind UpGrade Ohio was first created in 2014, its focus was to create a model for energy efficiency in Athens County, utilizing community choice aggregation as the tool. To move the idea forward, Athens County Commissioner Chris Chmiel and County Planner Lori Burchett traveled to Washington, D.C. to apply for participation in the $5 million Georgetown University Energy Prize on behalf of Athens County, Ohio.
UpGrade Ohio now advocates for energy efficiency in Ohio’s Appalachian counties and communities. Think of us as a neutral resource that can help you get the most out of your utility service. There are many opportunities to save energy, including programs offered by regional electric and linked to gas utilities. Energy efficiency programs offered by utilities are built into the cost of your monthly bill, so it’s in your benefit to save energy because you have already paid your share by using the electric grid or regional gas pipeline network. Learn more about what they have to offer here:
Have an electric or natural gas account with the utilities below? Go to our Take Action! page to learn about additional programs!
AEP Ohio: https://www.aepohio.com/save/residential/
Washington Electric Cooperative: http://www.weci.org/content/energy-efficiency
Buckeye Rural Electric Cooperative: https://www.buckeyerec.coop/index.php/energy-conservation-tips/
South Central Power:
https://www.southcentralpower.com/electrical-services/energy-management-program/
Columbia Gas of Ohio: https://www.columbiagasohio.com/ways-to-save
If you live here, we would love to help you save energy!
This electric service map can be found on the PUCO website here.