Direct Energy Forthcoming Launch at AEP Ohio Likely to Include Residential Service

Direct Energy is to launch electricity service at AEP Ohio by the end of the month.

The company made the announcement in connection with a statement praising the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio's recent orders regarding merchant function exits at Dominion East Ohio and Columbia Gas.

Direct Energy did not provide further details regarding the AEP Ohio launch.

Matters specifically inquired whether such launch will include residential service, but the company would not specify.

It should be noted, however, that Direct Energy Business previously launched non-residential service at Ohio Power in late 2011 (at the time Ohio Power was one of two distinct AEP distribution companies in Ohio, and has since merged with Columbus Southern Power, with Ohio Power being the surviving entity).

Moreover, in connection with its launch at the FirstEnergy utilities this summer, Direct Energy Business had previously informed Matters that its other active markets included "AEP (Ohio Power & Columbus Southern)."

Of the merchant function exit orders, Direct Energy CEO Chris Weston said, "The PUCO's decisions are a strong signal that Ohio is a growing competitive energy market. They are an invitation to companies like Direct Energy to invest and grow in this state."