Ohio utility regulators adopt new rules limiting consumer oversight

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) has adopted new rules that alter how utility rate cases are litigated, a move criticized by consumer advocates. The updated regulations include strict limits on the cross-examination of utility witnesses, restricting parties to generally one hour per witness.

Additionally, the new rules impose compressed deadlines for filing briefs and implement a 50-page cap on legal arguments. The Office of the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel (OCC) has expressed strong opposition, arguing these changes make it more difficult to challenge rate hikes and favor monopoly utilities by limiting the ability of advocates to present complex evidence.