First Energy Utility Resources

FirstEnergy Corp. is a diversified energy company headquartered in Akron, Ohio. It operates one of the nation's largest investor-owned electric systems, serving more than 6 million customers across six states: Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, and New York. FirstEnergy's subsidiaries and affiliates are involved in the transmission, distribution, and generation of electricity, providing safe, reliable, and affordable electric services to residential, commercial, and industrial customers.

Operating Companies:

• Ohio:

  • Ohio Edison

  • The Illuminating Company

  • Toledo Edison

• Pennsylvania:

  • Metropolitan Edison Company (Met-Ed)

  • Pennsylvania Electric Company (Penelec)

  • Penn Power

  • West Penn Power

• West Virginia:

  • Mon Power

  • Potomac Edison

• Maryland:

  • Potomac Edison

• New Jersey:

  • Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L)

Commitment:

FirstEnergy is dedicated to delivering excellent customer service, modernizing infrastructure, promoting energy efficiency, and supporting the communities it serves. The company focuses on safety, environmental responsibility, and community engagement through various programs and initiatives.

Customer Service Contacts by Operating Company:

1. Ohio:

   • Ohio Edison

     • Customer Service: 1-800-633-4766

   • The Illuminating Company

     • Customer Service: 1-800-589-3101

   • Toledo Edison

     • Customer Service: 1-800-447-3333

2. Pennsylvania:

   • Met-Ed

     • Customer Service: 1-800-545-7741

   • Penelec

     • Customer Service: 1-800-545-7741

   • Penn Power

     • Customer Service: 1-800-720-3600

   • West Penn Power

     • Customer Service: 1-800-686-0021

3. West Virginia and Maryland:

   • Mon Power

     • Customer Service: 1-800-686-0022

   • Potomac Edison

     • Customer Service:

       • West Virginia: 1-800-686-0011

       • Maryland: 1-800-686-0011

4. New Jersey:

   • Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L)

     • Customer Service: 1-800-662-3115

Emergency/Power Outages (All Companies):

• Report Outages or Electrical Emergencies: 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877) (Available 24/7)

Online:

• Website: Visit FirstEnergy's Contact Us page to select your operating company and access specific contact information.

• Online Account Management: Register or log in to the My Account portal for account management.

Mobile App:

• FirstEnergy Mobile App:

  • App Store: Download for iOS

  • Google Play: Download for Android

Mailing Address:

• Payment Address: (Varies by operating company; refer to your bill or the company's website)

In Person:

• Authorized Payment Locations: Visit the Payment Locations page to find authorized payment centers near you.

TTY/TDD Services:

• Hearing Impaired (TTY/TDD): Dial 711 and provide the operator with the appropriate number.

FirstEnergy offers a variety of convenient payment options across all its operating companies:

Online Payments:

• My Account Portal:

  • Register or log in to the My Account portal to view and pay bills securely using a bank account or credit/debit card.

• One-Time Payment:

  • Make a one-time payment without logging in via the Guest Payment option.

Automatic Payment (AutoPay):

• Enroll in AutoPay to have your monthly bill automatically deducted from your checking or savings account on the due date.

• Enrollment:

  • Set up AutoPay through your online account or by calling customer service for your specific operating company.

Mobile App:

• Use the FirstEnergy mobile app to manage your account and make payments on the go.

By Phone:

• Call the payment number associated with your operating company:

  • Ohio Edison: 1-800-686-3421

  • The Illuminating Company: 1-800-686-9901

  • Toledo Edison: 1-800-995-0095

  • Met-Ed/Penelec/Penn Power/West Penn Power: 1-800-962-0383

  • Mon Power/Potomac Edison (WV): 1-800-736-3401

  • Potomac Edison (MD): 1-800-736-3401

  • JCP&L: 1-800-686-0021

• Have your account number and payment method ready. A convenience fee may apply.

In Person:

• Pay at authorized payment locations such as Authorized Payment Agents and select retail stores.

• Use the Payment Locations finder to locate a site near you.

By Mail:

• Send a check or money order along with your bill stub to the payment address listed on your bill.

Third-Party Payment Services:

• Utilize services like CheckFreePay or Western Union. Additional fees may apply, and processing times may vary.

Payment Assistance:

• Extended Due Date:

  • Customers receiving Social Security or other fixed incomes can request an extended due date.

• Third-Party Notification:

  • Designate a third party to receive copies of your bills and notices.

If you experience a power outage or encounter an electrical emergency, follow these steps:

1. Check for Localized Issues:

   • Ensure that the problem is not due to a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse in your home.

2. Report the Outage or Emergency:

   • By Phone:

     • Call 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877) to report the outage or emergency.

   • Online:

     • Log in to your My Account and report the outage through the online system.

   • Mobile App:

     • Use the FirstEnergy mobile app to report outages quickly.

   • Text Message:

     • Enroll in Text Messaging:

       • Text REG to 544487 (LIGHTS) to sign up.

     • Report Outage via Text:

       • Once enrolled, text OUT to 544487.

3. Stay Informed:

   • Outage Map:

     • View the Outage Map on the FirstEnergy website for real-time updates and estimated restoration times.

   • Email and Text Alerts:

     • Sign up for alerts through your online account to receive updates on outages and restoration efforts.

4. Safety Precautions:

   • Stay Away from Downed Power Lines:

     • If you see downed wires, stay at least 30 feet away and report them immediately.

   • Generator Safety:

     • If using a generator, ensure it is properly installed and ventilated to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

   • Unplug Appliances:

     • Disconnect sensitive electronics to prevent damage from power surges when power is restored.

Additional Resources:

• Visit the Outages and Safety section on the FirstEnergy website for more information on how to prepare for and respond to outages.

Budget Billing:

FirstEnergy offers a Budget Billing program to help customers manage their energy expenses by spreading costs evenly throughout the year:

• How It Works:

  • Your annual electricity usage is estimated based on historical data.

  • This amount is divided into equal monthly payments, allowing for predictable budgeting.

  • The account is reviewed periodically, and adjustments are made if necessary to reflect actual usage.

• Enrollment:

  • Enroll in Budget Billing through the My Account portal or by calling customer service for your operating company.

Payment Assistance Programs:

FirstEnergy provides several assistance programs to support customers facing financial difficulties:

• Ohio:

  • Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus (PIPP Plus):

    • Allows eligible customers to pay a percentage of their household income toward their utility bills.

    • Eligibility: Based on income at or below 150% of the federal poverty level.

    • How to Apply: Contact the Ohio Development Services Agency or your local community action agency.

  • Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP):

    • Provides grants to help low-income households pay heating bills.

    • How to Apply: Visit the Ohio HEAP website or call 1-800-282-0880.

• Pennsylvania:

  • Customer Assistance Program (PCAP):

    • Offers a reduced monthly payment amount based on income and usage.

    • How to Apply: Call 1-800-207-9276.

  • Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP):

    • Provides grants to help low-income households pay heating bills.

    • How to Apply: Visit the Pennsylvania LIHEAP website or call 1-866-857-7095.

• West Virginia:

  • Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP):

    • Assists eligible households with their home energy bills.

    • How to Apply: Visit the West Virginia DHHR website or call 1-800-642-8589.

• Maryland:

  • Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP):

    • Provides assistance with heating bills.

    • How to Apply: Visit the Maryland Office of Home Energy Programs or call 1-800-332-6347.

• New Jersey:

  • Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP):

    • Provides grants to help low-income households pay heating bills.

    • How to Apply: Visit the New Jersey LIHEAP website or call 1-800-510-3102.

• Additional Programs (All States):

  • Dollar Energy Fund / Neighbor to Neighbor Program:

    • A hardship fund providing grants to customers who have difficulty paying their utility bills.

    • How to Apply: Contact your operating company's customer service for details.

  • Medical Certification Program:

    • Provides special protections against service disconnection for customers with a serious medical condition.

    • How to Apply: Submit a medical certificate from a licensed physician.

  • Payment Arrangements:

    • If you're having difficulty paying your bill, FirstEnergy may offer payment arrangements to spread out payments over time.

    • How to Apply: Contact customer service to discuss options.

Starting Service:

• Online Request:

  • Visit the Start Service page.

  • Select your operating company and complete the online form with required information:

    • Name and contact details.

    • Service address.

    • Preferred start date (allow at least three business days).

    • Identification information (e.g., Social Security Number or Tax ID).

• By Phone:

  • Call customer service for your specific operating company.

• Required Information:

  • Proof of identity.

  • Proof of occupancy (e.g., lease agreement or ownership documents).

Stopping Service:

• Online Request:

  • Visit the Stop Service page.

  • Provide your account number, service address, and the date you wish the service to be discontinued.

• By Phone:

  • Call customer service to schedule a service termination.

• Final Meter Reading:

  • Ensure that FirstEnergy has access to your meter on the scheduled date.

Transferring Service:

• Moving Within FirstEnergy Service Area:

  • Use the Transfer Service option to move your service to a new address.

  • Provide details of your current and new addresses, and move-in/move-out dates.

Additional Notes:

• Security Deposits:

  • A deposit may be required for new customers or accounts with prior payment issues.

• Advance Notice:

  • It is recommended to request service changes at least five business days in advance.

• Assistance:

  • For help with starting, stopping, or transferring service, contact customer service for your operating company.

FirstEnergy's rates and tariffs are regulated by the respective state Public Utility Commissions and are designed to cover the costs of providing safe and reliable electric service.

Rate Components:

1. Delivery Charges:

   • Covers the cost of delivering electricity to your home or business, including maintenance of the electric grid and infrastructure.

2. Supply Charges:

   • Reflects the cost of purchasing electricity from suppliers in the energy market.

   • Customers can choose to purchase electricity from a third-party supplier or remain with FirstEnergy's default service.

3. Transmission Charges:

   • Costs associated with transmitting electricity over high-voltage lines from generation facilities to the distribution system.

4. Taxes and Regulatory Fees:

   • Includes state and local taxes, surcharges, and other regulatory fees.

Accessing Rate Information:

• Rates and Tariffs Page:

  • Visit the Rates and Tariffs section on the FirstEnergy website.

  • Select your operating company and view current rate schedules.

• Tariff Documents:

  • Download detailed tariff documents for comprehensive information on rates, charges, and terms of service.

• Bill Estimator:

  • Use any available tools on their website to estimate your monthly charges based on expected electricity usage.

Customer Service:

• For personalized rate information or questions about your bill, contact customer service for your operating company.

Energy Choice Program:

• Third-Party Suppliers:

  • Many states served by FirstEnergy have deregulated energy markets, allowing customers to choose an alternative electric supplier for the supply portion of their bill.

• How It Works:

  • FirstEnergy continues to deliver electricity and maintain the grid.

  • The third-party supplier provides the electricity commodity.

• Benefits:

  • Potential cost savings.

  • Flexible pricing plans.

  • Access to renewable energy options.

• Considerations:

  • Review supplier contracts carefully.

  • Ensure the supplier is licensed by the state Public Utility Commission.

  • Be aware of variable rates and any cancellation fees.

• State-Specific Resources:

  • Ohio: Energy Choice Ohio

  • Pennsylvania: PA Power Switch

  • New Jersey: NJ Powerswitch

  • Maryland: Maryland PSC

  • West Virginia: Limited choice available; check with the West Virginia Public Service Commission.

Yes, FirstEnergy supports renewable energy and offers programs and incentives to encourage the adoption of clean energy technologies:

Renewable Energy Programs:

• Net Metering:

  • Customers who generate their own electricity using renewable energy sources like solar panels or wind turbines can connect to the grid and receive credits for excess energy produced.

  • Benefits:

    • Reduce your electricity bills.

    • Contribute to environmental sustainability.

  • How to Participate:

    • Visit the Net Metering page for application forms and guidelines.

    • Select your operating company for specific requirements.

• Interconnection Standards:

  • Guidelines for safely connecting customer-owned renewable energy systems to the grid.

  • Process:

    • Submit an interconnection application.

    • Comply with technical requirements and safety standards.

Energy Efficiency Programs:

• Residential Energy Efficiency Programs:

  • Rebates and incentives for purchasing energy-efficient appliances and equipment, such as HVAC systems, water heaters, and smart thermostats.

  • How to Participate:

    • Visit the energy efficiency program page for your state or operating company:

      • Ohio: Energy Save Ohio

      • Pennsylvania: Energy Save PA

      • Maryland and West Virginia: FirstEnergy's Energy Efficiency Programs

      • New Jersey: Energy Save NJ

• Commercial and Industrial Programs:

  • Incentives for businesses to upgrade to energy-efficient equipment and systems.

Renewable Energy Credits (RECs):

• While FirstEnergy does not directly sell RECs to customers, you can support renewable energy by purchasing RECs through third-party providers or participating in green pricing programs if available.

Environmental Initiatives:

• Support for Solar and Wind Energy:

  • Encouraging the development of renewable energy projects within the service area.

• Grid Modernization:

  • Investing in infrastructure upgrades to accommodate increased renewable energy generation.

Education and Outreach:

• Energy Saving Tips:

  • Provides customers with tips and resources to reduce energy consumption and adopt sustainable practices.

• Community Programs:

  • Participates in local environmental initiatives and supports community sustainability projects.

Additional Resources:

• Visit the FirstEnergy Environmental Initiatives page for more information on their commitment to environmental stewardship.

FirstEnergy offers numerous resources and programs to help customers reduce energy consumption and save money:

Energy Efficiency Tips:

• Heating and Cooling:

  • Set your thermostat to 68°F in the winter and 78°F in the summer when home.

  • Use programmable or smart thermostats to automate temperature adjustments.

  • Maintain your HVAC system with regular servicing.

• Lighting:

  • Replace incandescent bulbs with ENERGY STAR® certified LED bulbs.

  • Use natural lighting when possible.

• Appliances:

  • Opt for ENERGY STAR® certified appliances that consume less energy.

  • Unplug devices and appliances when not in use to avoid "phantom" energy usage.

• Insulation and Sealing:

  • Improve home insulation in attics, walls, and crawl spaces.

  • Seal leaks around windows, doors, and ducts to prevent energy loss.

Rebate Programs:

• Energy Efficiency Rebates:

  • Receive rebates for purchasing qualifying energy-efficient appliances and equipment.

  • How to Apply:

    • Visit the energy efficiency program page for your state or operating company:

      • Ohio: Energy Save Ohio

      • Pennsylvania: Energy Save PA

      • Maryland and West Virginia: FirstEnergy's Energy Efficiency Programs

      • New Jersey: Energy Save NJ

Home Energy Assessment:

• Online Energy Audit:

  • Use the online tools to assess your home's energy efficiency and receive customized recommendations.

• Professional Energy Audit:

  • Schedule a professional assessment for a comprehensive evaluation (availability may vary by state).

Demand Response Programs:

• Peak Rewards Programs:

  • Earn bill credits by reducing energy usage during peak demand periods.

• How to Enroll:

  • Contact customer service or visit the website for program details (availability may vary by state).

Online Tools and Resources:

• Energy Analyzer:

  • Access through your online account to track and analyze your energy usage patterns.

• Educational Materials:

  • Access articles, guides, and videos on energy conservation strategies.

Community Programs:

• Workshops and Events:

  • Participate in local events focused on energy efficiency and sustainability.

Customer Support:

• Personalized Assistance:

  • Contact FirstEnergy's energy efficiency specialists for personalized advice.

Implementing these strategies can lead to significant savings on your electricity bill and contribute to environmental conservation.

Encountering a downed power line or electrical hazard is extremely dangerous. Here's what you should do:

1. Stay Away:

   • Keep a safe distance of at least 30 feet from the downed line and anything it may be touching, including puddles of water and metal objects.

2. Do Not Touch:

   • Do not attempt to move or touch the power line or any objects in contact with it, such as vehicles or tree limbs.

3. Avoid the Area:

   • Do not drive over downed power lines or through water that may be in contact with them.

4. Call for Help:

   • Immediately call 911 to report the hazard.

   • Report the downed power line to FirstEnergy by calling 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877).

5. Warn Others:

   • Keep others away from the area until emergency responders arrive.

6. If a Power Line Falls on Your Vehicle:

   • Stay Inside:

     • Remain in the vehicle unless it's unsafe due to fire or other immediate hazards.

   • Call for Help:

     • Use your mobile phone to call 911.

   • Exiting the Vehicle Safely (If Necessary):

     • Jump clear of the vehicle without touching it and the ground at the same time.

     • Land with your feet together and shuffle away keeping both feet on the ground.

Important Safety Tips:

• Assume All Downed Lines Are Live:

  • Always treat downed power lines as energized and dangerous.

• Electrical Fires:

  • If an electrical fire occurs, do not use water to extinguish it.

  • Use a Class C fire extinguisher if available.

For Gas-Related Emergencies:

• If you smell natural gas or suspect a gas leak:

  • Evacuate the area immediately.

  • Avoid Sparks: Do not use electronic devices or anything that could create a spark.

  • Call Your Gas Utility:

    • From a safe location, contact your local gas utility company.

Additional Resources:

• Visit the Electrical Safety page on the FirstEnergy website for more information on safety precautions.

For additional assistance or more information about FirstEnergy services, please visit the Official FirstEnergy Website or contact the customer support number for your specific operating company.