The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) said the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio’s (PUCO) decision Wednesday ordering FirstEnergy to pay $250 million in penalties is a major victory for ratepayers and one that OMA helped secure. The OMA participated directly in the case and pressed commissioners to hold the utility accountable, making manufacturers’ concerns impossible to ignore in the wake of the House Bill 6 corruption scandal.

OMA President Ryan Augsburger said the ruling is an essential step toward rebuilding trust in Ohio’s energy system and ensuring job creators aren’t left paying the price for past misconduct. He also urged regulators to closely examine the flawed forecasting models that have contributed to rising electric bills and growing unaffordability.

Augsburger noted that “PUCO’s job isn’t done yet,” and the OMA will continue working with regulators and lawmakers to secure competitive rates, strengthen oversight, and advance a modern, accountable energy system that supports Ohio manufacturing. 11/19/2025