Ohio Judge Prevents Utility Disconnection Despite Rate Hike Nonpayment
What happened
A Public Utilities Commission of Ohio administrative law judge ruled that SOBE Thermal Energy Systems LLC cannot disconnect utility service to two downtown Youngstown buildings, West 34 Investors LLC and Erie Terminal Place LLC, even though they failed to pay major rate increases approved by the commission. The judge ruled that SOBE may not disconnect service while the complaint regarding the disputed amount is pending.
From vindy.com
Why it matters
The ruling prevents the utility from cutting service to the buildings despite the owners disputing the emergency rates. These emergency rates, approved by the PUCO on June 24, included increases of up to 163% for some customers.
From vindy.com
Who's involved
- OhioThe state where the administrative law judge issued the ruling.
- Mahoning CountyThe county in Ohio where the affected downtown Youngstown buildings are located.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- Mahoning CountySpeculative
Businesses within Mahoning County might see stabilized utility costs and service due to the regulatory intervention.