FirstEnergy Pays $276M to Settle HB6 Scandal

Akron-based FirstEnergy Corp. has finalized a significant settlement agreement to resolve four outstanding cases stemming from the House Bill 6 bribery scandal. The agreement, submitted to the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO), addresses claims from the Office of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel and several other entities.

Under the terms of the settlement, FirstEnergy will return nearly $276 million to its Ohio customers. This comprehensive sum builds upon previous restitution plans that have already begun applying rebates to customer bills. PUCO had previously directed FirstEnergy to pay substantial amounts to customers and the state's general revenue fund regarding the scandal.

The newly agreed-upon settlement includes $25 million designated exclusively for residential customers. Additionally, $20 million will be allocated to assist low-income Ohioans with utility payments, weatherization, and energy-efficiency improvements, providing much-needed relief.