It’s National Preparedness Month — that means it’s time to put on your game face, hit the field, defend your turf and go all in on getting ready for the unexpected. Here’s what you need to know to create a game-winning strategy. Coach’s Tip: Create a detailed playbook outlining your step-by-step actions in the …
September is National Preparedness Month. Follow these simple tips to help keep you and your family safe, prepared and connected in the event of an emergency. Outline Your Guide Create a detailed plan of action outlining your step-by-step approach in the event of severe weather or disaster. Identify a safe area, such as a basement or storm shelter …
It’s back-to-school season and that means it’s time for a pop quiz. Study up and school yourself on the savings and payment assistance options AEP Ohio offers. How did you do? Whether you need a little extra time to pay or are looking to better manage your budget, these are just a few of the …
Thanks to an AEP Ohio contract employee, one of our customers was able to survive a pretty scary situation in eastern Ohio. A J.F. Electric crew was replacing poles in the Byesville area and their job stretched into the early evening. They stayed late to complete the work. While returning their equipment from the customer’s …
The Tuscarawas County Dale Lauren Foland Manufacturing Camp is a four-day exploration into the world of manufacturing for local students entering the seventh and eighth grades. Held at the Buckeye Career Center in New Philadelphia, the goal of the camp is for students to learn about technology and innovation in the manufacturing industry through presentations …
We’re committed to supporting the communities we serve and the passions of our employees who live and work there. We’re celebrating some of our teams’ recent efforts below. Liberty Benton Youth Sports Association Nick Schwab is a meter electrician for AEP Ohio whose two children play in the Findlay area group’s baseball and softball leagues. …
Steve Webb, a lineworker in the Lancaster area, was responding to a call in Logan about a customer’s power being out when he spotted a 10-year-old boy practicing his karate moves nearby. After restoring service and talking to the customer, he headed to his truck to finish up some paperwork and let the dispatching center …
Cops and Barbers kicked off in 2018 thanks to the vision of Columbus Division of Police officer Pete Casuccio and local barber, Robert Cayson. The aim of the initiative is to help inner-city youth start the school year off right by providing them with fresh, back-to-school haircuts and new school supplies. AEP Ohio is proud …
Fallen trees and branches are one of the most common causes of power outages. That’s why AEP Ohio has a comprehensive, year-round tree maintenance program to manage trees and brush that grow near or around our power lines and equipment. And, it’s been shown to improve the reliability of your electric service. Since 2009, our …
At AEP Ohio, we believe in the promise of clean energy and are committed to helping lead the transition to a brighter future. We want you to be informed before making any decisions about whether solar panels are right for you and your family. Learn more below: Will I save money by …
Is your electric bill higher than normal? From the extreme heat to higher fuel costs, there are a number of factors making a difference on your electric bill. If you’re experiencing financial hardship or looking for ways to better manage your electric bill, we’ve listed some tips and resources below to help you reduce your …
Earlier this year, members of AEP Ohio’s customer service team helped Habitat for Humanity of Southeast Ohio build its 100th house in the community. Recently, they were back at it again, assisting the organization with its newest build in Lancaster. AEP Ohio customer service account representative Brandy Marshall is based in Lancaster and is in …
A few AEP Ohio employees from the Van Wert Service Center recently participated in “Let’s Get Down to Business,” an event organized by the Career Connections of Van Wert County. To learn more about finance and how to manage a budget, fifth graders began the day with an allotment of “money” that they spent at …
Most attics have long-forgotten items hidden away and AEP Ohio’s service center in Hillsboro is no different. On a rainy day earlier this year, some of the shop’s lineworkers were showing new employees around the 170-year-old building. When they made their way to the attic, they noticed a hole in the ceiling leading to a …
Tary Combes is a line servicer who has been with AEP Ohio for 17 years. He had the unique opportunity to work with Ryan Coon, a senior technician and licensed drone pilot, to provide initial damage assessment in some tough to reach rural areas that were hard hit by the wind storm in June. The …
With the summer heat in full swing, these simple steps can help you save energy and money while keeping your family cool: Set the Thermostat Turn your thermostat up a few degrees. Adjusting the temperature is one of the most effective ways to reduce cooling costs. Installing smart thermostats can help you monitor and adjust …
We hear you — and understand you’ve been frustrated by last week’s emergency forced power outages. We’d like to share more information about what happened and how our team responded when the power went out. What Happened: Behind-the-Scenes Severe storms early last week caused significant damage to high-voltage transmission lines that feed power to the …
Bill Assistance for Eligible AEP Ohio Customers Bill assistance continues to be available through the Neighbor to Neighbor program. Current funding available through this program is $2.7 million. This special expanded assistance opportunity will provide eligible AEP Ohio customers in need with a grant applied directly to their bill, even if they are not currently past …
The first day of summer is right around the corner. Warmer weather means more time spent outdoors — and safety should always be front of mind. We’ve got you covered with a few quick, but important reminders this National Safety Month. See what you know — take the quick test below. How’d you do? Let …
To celebrate Father’s Day, we sat down with local father and son duo Floyd and Casey Ridenour to learn more about what it’s like working together and sharing a passion for linework. From the time Casey Ridenour was a toddler, he loved the giant toy trucks in his house. Even more so, the lineworker bucket …
Eric Madden, a line crew supervisor at AEP Ohio’s South Point service center, was driving to work a few miles from his house when he spotted what looked like an osprey nest high atop one of our utility poles in Haverhill. He quickly recognized the large nest was a fire hazard that threatened our equipment …
The safety mantra “be your brother’s keeper” takes on special meaning for Ronnie and Larry Holmes. The siblings, who grew up in Ravenna, now both work for AEP Ohio in Canton — Ronnie as a line mechanic and Larry as a work scheduling supervisor. Larry began his lineworking apprenticeship in 2007 and later recruited his …
AEP Ohio is teaming up with Aerial Solutions to test a new all-electric technology that will help clear trees around power lines and equipment in rural areas — and it’s all happening from the sky. Helicopters with aerial saws have been used for years to help trim trees in hard to reach, more rural areas. …
Jay Painter is a senior at New Albany High School. He’s always loved cars: He played with Hot Wheels as a kid; he watches Formula One racing; he went to automotive engineering camp at The Ohio State University. So when it came time to pick a Senior Seminar and Global Scholars project for his final …
There’s a new tourist destination for outdoor enthusiasts in southern Ohio, and AEP Ohio is proud to lend a hand with finishing a final piece of its construction. Located in Vinton and Athens counties, the Moonville Rail Trail is a 10-mile journey through Zaleski State Forest, the communities of Zaleski and Mineral, Lake Hope State …
Hot summer days are almost here. That can mean higher electric bills as your air conditioner and fans work hard to cool your home. Seasonal bill spikes can be frustrating, especially when paired with the impact of inflation and rising fuel costs—keep your bill manageable with these simple steps: Sign up for our Average Monthly …
Doing what you promise is necessary. It’s necessary for building trust; it’s necessary for providing excellent customer service; and it’s necessary for keeping people safe, too. His peers understand this, which is why the AEP Ohio state safety committee named Josh Freeman, a Chillicothe line mechanic, its safety champion for April. Freeman was recently assigned …
Below you’ll find tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe during a power outage. Downed Line Safety Remember, all downed lines are dangerous — they carry an electric current that can cause serious or even fatal injuries. If you encounter a fallen wire, keep yourself and others far away from it or …
AEP Ohio, in partnership with Mid-Ohio Food Collective and the Electric Power Research Institute, is showcasing new technology to grow nutritious food year-round. The “Indoor Ag Container,” a retrofitted semi-trailer equipped with high-tech sensors as well as LED and ultraviolet lights, makes it possible to grow food outside traditional growing seasons. “At AEP Ohio, we’re …
Lineworkers are at the core of what we do here at AEP Ohio — working with tens of thousands of volts of electricity, around the clock and in all weather conditions, to keep the power on for our customers across Ohio. Each year on April 18 we recognize National Lineworker Appreciation Day. We asked our …
To celebrate National Volunteer Month, we spoke with AEP Ohio team members to hear how they give back to the community. Read more below: Jayne Meyer has been volunteering since her days as a college student at The Ohio State University, reading textbooks onto tapes for blind students and volunteering as a tutor. Coming from …
Growing up, Krystle Thompson remembers coming home from school, dropping off her backpack and running all over town with her friends. She loved skipping rocks at the pond, playing outside and all the joy that came with living in a town where you know your neighbors across the street, as well as across town. It’s …
To celebrate National Volunteer Month, we spoke with AEP Ohio team members to hear how they give back to the community. Read more below: Whether it’s sorting and packing food, verifying expiration dates or even seeking out bruised fruit, Laura McCabe has done it all at the Mid-Ohio Food Collective—so much so that this AEP …
To celebrate National Volunteer Month, we spoke with AEP Ohio team members to hear how they give back to the community. Read more below: After a 43-year career with AEP Ohio, customer account manager Jeff VanDine retired this month, leaving behind a legacy of volunteerism and constant kindness. The organizer behind holiday parties, fish fries, …
To celebrate National Volunteer Month, we spoke with AEP Ohio team members to hear how they give back to the community. Read more below: When it’s time to sit down for a Thanksgiving meal, Jennifer Wilfong does her best to make sure as many people as possible have one. The mission started back in 2016 …
Day to day, AEP Ohio forester Steve Wengerd oversees the vegetation management program for the Canton service area, the town he was born and raised in. He manages tree crews as they trim vegetation away from our power lines and equipment to help prevent future outages. Plus, he and his team are responsible for a …
April 18 is National Lineworker Appreciation Day, a day set aside to give thanks to those working hard to keep our power on around the clock. These workers are committed to doing a challenging but necessary job that takes skill and dedication, and often requires long hours away from loved ones. Please help us celebrate …
Spring is finally here — and that means your air conditioner will soon be making a return. Take the quiz below to brush up on ways to lower your energy usage and save money around your house. Looking for more ways to save? Check out your Energy Dashboard at AEPOhio.com/Account to see how you use …
To celebrate National Volunteer Month, we spoke with AEP Ohio team members to hear how they give back to the community. Read more below: AEP Ohio’s service territory includes many small towns and it’s not uncommon for some of our employees to volunteer with the local fire department or Emergency Medical Services (EMS). It’s less …
The business of keeping the lights on involves the work of many different departments at AEP Ohio – and that certainly includes the 150 meter specialists, meter electricians and supervisors who make up Meter Revenue Operations. You might not be aware of these five critical areas in which meter personnel are involved. Customer questions: When …
Spring brings flowers, sunshine, longer days — and the chance of storms. Ohio Severe Weather Awareness Week, which begins March 20, is a time to prepare for emergency situations that can pop up when severe weather, like thunderstorms, high winds and flash floods, strike. Follow these six simple tips to help keep you and your …
AEP Ohio has many amazing women among its ranks: engineers, lineworkers, technicians, customer advocates, analysts, advisors and managers, just to name a few. As we honor Women’s History Month, we’re celebrating the female team members who inspire us. We spoke with a few to hear how they’re working to power change every day. Read their …
Tommy Schafer has been a lineman for so long that many of the safe behaviors he practices are practically second nature. For Schafer, prioritizing safety is just as important today as it was 42 years ago when he started at AEP Ohio – and continuing to stress its importance may have recently saved a young …
We know many in our communities were impacted by the winter storm that hit last week — icy conditions brought down trees and power lines across Ohio. We truly appreciated your patience and understanding as we worked to get the power restored in the hardest hit areas as quickly as we safely could. After the …
The American Electric Power Foundation has awarded the YMCA of Central Stark County a $100,000 grant for the creation of a new STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) program. These educational classes will not only occur at YMCA facilities but also at YMCA before- and after-school sites at local schools. The “STEM at the Y” …
The Big Game is just days away, and AEP Ohio is offering customers an energy efficient playbook ahead of the game. With more people likely staying home to watch Sunday’s final showdown, customers could see an increase in energy usage as they prepare for Sunday’s matchup. Below are some tips to keep you on the …
With the gentle coaxing of AEP Ohio’s customer service and economic development teams, Tessenderlo Kerley – which produces a range of sulfur-based fertilizers – has decided to build a new plant in Defiance, Ohio, that will serve the eastern Great Lakes region. “This is a very big deal for Defiance,” said John Recker, AEP Ohio …
Black History Month serves as a reminder of the critical work ahead at AEP for promoting diversity, equity and inclusion. AEP Ohio and the AEP Foundation are putting words into action. In addition to encouraging our workforce to focus personally on pushing for change, the foundation has established a five-year, $5 million “Delivering on the …
After a major storm hits, our crews quickly begin to assess the damage and determine staffing needs — sometimes coordinating crews from other parts of Ohio and other states to help with restoration efforts, depending on the severity of the damage. Assessing the impact of the storm takes time, but it’s an important part of …
Kyle Keiffer’s memory is staying alive and well in southeastern Ohio, one pair of shoes at a time. Kyle died of heart disease in 2016 during surgery. He was 26 years old. Because Kyle loved shoes, his family thought it would be nice to start an annual Christmas tradition of donating shoes in his name …
Keeping squirrels, birds and other animals away from our equipment remains a longstanding, difficult challenge. AEP Ohio has been putting great effort into saving the lives of our furry and feathered friends, both for their own safety and for preventing the power outages they sometimes cause. Though there are many kinds of animal protection devices, …
For more than 100 years, eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all has been the mission of the YWCA. It’s an organization that’s been at the forefront of initiating systemic social change. That mission has stood strong through the decades, and it’s being furthered in Columbus with help from …
Tim is an AEP Ohio forester. He oversees a team of foresters in Southeastern Ohio as they trim trees back from power lines and equipment to help keep your power on. In addition, he ensures the crew follows proper safety measures and tree trimming techniques. We spoke with Tim to learn more about the important …
Snow days, sledding and building snowmen are a few of the joys that come with winter weather. Driving in wintry weather is another story. Snow and ice create hazardous road conditions which lead to increased vehicle accidents. Car accidents are responsible for more than 1,000 power outages each year on average, affecting approximately 190,000 customers …
In case you missed these posts on our social channels, keep reading to learn what our team at AEP Ohio has been up to in northeast Ohio over the past few weeks. To make sure you never miss another post featuring your community, be sure to follow us on social media: …
Customer Account Manager Mike Sikora joined AEP Ohio in April 2021, so he wasn’t involved in the initial application process that awarded Belmont College $10,000 for its new Burn Training Facility. He has deep connections to it though; not only is Belmont College now one of his customers but Sikora was a graduate of the …
Keeping the lights on starts with documenting on our system maps the location of every single piece of equipment that’s used to deliver electricity to our customers. If that sounds simple enough, just ask one of the 12 GIS (Geographic Information System) technicians who constantly input the latest information for the hundreds of thousands of …
With a rise in COVID-19 cases prompting increased vigilance at AEP Ohio, our Western District employees weren’t sure how to most effectively and safely give back to their community. They wouldn’t let this challenge stop them though, and they quickly banded together for a first-time winter accessories drive that surpassed expectations. Employees in our six …
When a tragedy occurs, people often wish to go back in time and stop it. To do something, to say something. They want to do what Dave Lightfritz did. Lightfritz, a records specialist in AEP Ohio’s Right of Way organization, lives in a Dublin subdivision and walks his 8-year daughter every morning to her nearby …
Lucasville is one of the few communities in southern Ohio without a park. With some help from AEP Ohio, that will soon change. AEP Ohio has donated $50,000 to Growing Lucasville Opportunities (GLO) – $25,000 this year and $25,000 next year – to help build a park on Robert Lucas Road about two miles from …
Poverty, which is traditionally defined in terms of income level, is a much broader issue that includes lack of safe housing, health care and food resources. Sadly, minorities experience higher poverty rates due to a number of contributing factors. Fortunately, there are organizations in Ohio working to combat this disparity and bring opportunity to affected …
For individuals or families living in poverty, navigating the legal system can be difficult. Many in our community face homelessness, hunger, violence and other challenges because they don’t have access to the resources they need. Community Legal Aid Services is a non-profit law firm in northeast Ohio that provides services to low-income individuals and families, …
The holiday season can be expensive, however there’s still ways to gift yourself. Yes, that’s right. Give yourself the gift of savings this holiday season with these three energy efficient tips. Consider classic décor for your home Traditional decorations like evergreen wreaths and swags, popcorn garland, nutcrackers and homemade ornaments can make your home look …
Before Marc Reitter was the president and chief operating officer of AEP Ohio, he grew up working in a central Ohio stucco business started by his great great grandfather in 1915. Though Marc grew up in the shop – there’s a photo in his office of him slapping stucco to a building as a six-year-old …
We’re all familiar with Santa’s eight reindeer responsible for keeping Santa’s sleigh in flight on Christmas Eve. Here are our top eight electrical safety tips to help protect you and your loved ones this holiday season: Before putting up lights or other outdoor decorations, look up and stay clear of overhead power lines. Keep ladders, …
Do you know who is naughty or nice? Take this quiz to see if you can catch the scammer so you can keep your information safe this holiday season. The holidays keep us busy, which can make us extra vulnerable to potential scammers. Don’t be fooled by those scamming, naughty-listers this winter season. Take this …
Seventeen years ago, in celebration of Arbor Day, Erin Gorrell received a 5-inch-tall pine sapling. She and the other students at Shreve Elementary School were given the sapling inside a plastic bag along with a note about how trees benefit people and the environment. Erin took the tree home and she and her family committed …
Elevating the Voices of Women of Color Ohio is home to numerous organizations working tirelessly to create a more equitable community for every Ohioan. To further these efforts, AEP Ohio recently announced the American Electric Power Foundation awarded over $500,000 total in funding to four organizations throughout Ohio to further their impact in the communities …
As the holiday season gets underway, it’s time for the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s Wildlights — a family-favorite tradition in Central Ohio and beyond. This seasonal event runs from November 19, 2021 to January 2, 2022 and features festivities that include animated light displays, delicious treats, winter wonderland train rides and, of course, amazing animals. …
Score a Touchdown with These Safety Tips We love fall because that means one thing, football season is here again! Whether you’re cheering on your favorite professional or collegiate teams, make sure you are kicking off fall the safe way. Avoid penalties by following these helpful tips with football fans in mind: Delay of Game …
The decorations, the costumes, the candy — we love all things spooky. What we don’t love, however, are safety hazards that can prove to be more trick than treat. As you celebrate this year, follow these helpful tips to have a boo-tiful Halloween while ensuring scary safety snafus don’t come back to haunt you. Inspect …
Cut up to 25% of your electronics electricity usage by slaying energy vampires lurking around your home. What is an “energy vampire?” It’s an appliance or electronic device that continues to suck energy while turned off or in stand-by mode. According to ENERGY STAR®, this stand-by power, also called phantom power or vampire power, costs …
Mike Busch, a 39-year engineer with AEP Ohio, died Sunday, Sept. 5. He suffered a heart attack while hiking with his wife in Nevada as they celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary. He was 61. “It’s just a tragedy. He was such a kind-hearted person,” said senior engineering technologist Joe Straka, who worked with Busch for …
It is estimated that four in 10 people visiting a food bank now need assistance as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Food insecurity has always been a major issue, but with the pandemic, it has only worsened. In 2021, 42 million people, including 13 million children, may be at risk of hunger. September is …
Tornadoes, fires, flooding and other emergencies can sometimes occur with little to no warning. National Preparedness Month is in full swing and we want to take a moment to remind you about the importance of being prepared before a disaster unfolds. As Ben Franklin said, “by failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” This …
When Hurricane Ida’s 150-mile-per-hour winds ripped through Louisiana – and the storm failed to leave right away – it left a huge swath of devastation. With trees, poles and other equipment down everywhere, it can be difficult to know just how bad the damage is and what’s needed to get the power back on. Any …
Called out for storm duty on Friday, Aug. 13, a Belmont line crew had just hit the road and had a long night ahead of them. That didn’t stop them from helping someone in need. About 200 customers were without power in the Belmont area following a storm, and nine lineworkers were gearing up to …
Connecting a high school student with a trusted mentor can be a key stepping stone toward a successful career. That’s especially true for women and people of color, who can be underrepresented in certain professions (including linework.) To help combat this problem at the local level, AEP Ohio is giving $15,000 to the Lima Area …
Ty Carpenter was a welder for 26 years. Then, with hardly a look back, he put his entire career in the rearview mirror. “A guy I worked with went to Asplundh,” Carpenter said. “A year after he called me and said, ‘want a job’?” “He told me what it was. And I thought I was …
Copper theft is a costly crime, it threatens our service reliability and, most importantly, it can be incredibly dangerous. Lineworker Cody Lambert and Line Crew Supervisor Brant Phillips are being applauded by their peers at AEP Ohio for recently spotting a hazardous situation in Canton. Lambert and Phillips had pulled safely to the side of …
Small business owners still have options available for support through government grant programs. From COVID-19 relief programs like the SBA’s Targeted Emergency Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Advance and the Community Navigator Pilot program to other programs like the Rural Innovation Stronger Economy Grant and the America’s Seed Fund, you can find the funding and support …
“Beneficial electrification” is our way of saying there are advantages to using electricity instead of gas or other fossil fuels. AEP Ohio has a team of energy advisors dedicated to educating our customers on these advantages of making the switch, which include improved efficiency, reduced carbon emissions and improved productivity, safety and quality. Our team …
There’s no doubt that the future is electric. As we continue to move toward an electrified tomorrow, AEP Ohio is taking proactive steps to help businesses and communities charge into the future and explore the electric vehicle (EV) options that work best for them. The City of Columbus is one such example, having recently transitioned …
Sarah Powell, forestry supervisor at AEP Ohio, couldn’t help but laugh as she held out the tree branch the forestry team had cut that morning for the giraffe to grab. “It’s not every day that you get to look a giraffe in the face and feed it,” she said. But, thanks to AEP Ohio’s Trim …
Our smart technologies are working behind the scenes to keep your power on and save you money and energy. Take the quiz below to school yourself on the benefits of your home’s smart meter and Energy Dashboard. How did you do? Log in to your online account today at AEPOhio.com/Account to access your Energy Dashboard …
We’ve all practiced our fair share of safety habits at home and at work, but what should you do if you’re someplace in between? With more people on the roads as many head back to school, the office and other in-person activities, here are some important safety tips to keep in mind while behind the …
AEP Ohio has donated $5,000 to the Kyle Miller 5K, a race that raises money for new shoes for Gahanna students. Kyle Miller was diagnosed with bone cancer in 2016. He died in December 2018 at the age of 40. “Kyle was so friendly. He never met a stranger,” said his sister Erica Bush who, …
From high above to under the ground, our crews work year-round to keep the power on and improve your service. In addition to their day-to-day tasks, our lineworkers are hard at work installing equipment to improve your electric service. Here’s a quick breakdown of just some of the work we’re doing this year. 2021 Improvements …
A self-proclaimed “weather nerd,” AEP’s Meghan Klee has always been fascinated by weather. She has fond childhood memories of watching storms roll across the Indiana landscape alongside her father and grandfather —and when lacking a storm to follow in reality, binging movies like “Twister” and “The Perfect Storm.” Weather In Her Veins Meghan often found …
AEP has 16,800 employees; only have worked at the company for 50 years. Vince Boggs joined this exclusive club June 10. Boggs, a line crew supervisor in Steubenville, was 21 years old when he was hired in 1971. He had worked at a porcelain fabricating plant (pouring cement shower basins), at a brass manufacturer (making …
Julia Klingenberg joined AEP in 2005 in Supply Chain and Procurement and has been chair of AEP’s Pride Partnership employee resource group for just a few short months. Already, she has seen why groups like this are so important — and the impact they can have advocating for vulnerable populations. “Within days senior leaders had …
Did You Know: May, June and July are the peak tornado months in Ohio accounting for over half of the twisters that have hit since 1950? That means: it’s officially storm season. With the ever-present threat of storms, our teams are working hard to keep your power on. Here are some things you can do …
For the LGBT community, coming out is hard, no matter when or how it happens. We spoke with Jeff Jackson, a work scheduling assistant in Columbus, about his journey – and how he found love along the way. “I’ve been pretty open about being gay since I was about 18 or 19. So, it’s never …
Michael Garner’s dad was not a healthy man. He had several serious medical conditions. He suffered heart attacks at age 28 and 31 and a blood clot and a stroke several years later. He died at age 34. Garner, 47, has been overweight most of his life and has struggled with health problems. For many …
LifeCare Alliance has presented Regulatory Consultant Sherry Hill with the Franklin County Meals-on-Wheels Corporate Partner Spirit Award. Hill was involved with the program for 16 years. Hill’s career at AEP began at the General James M. Gavin power plant in Cheshire, Ohio, where her dad was a welder for 36 years. Hill interned there in …
Supporting the community has always been a priority for AEP Ohio. We know that while we work hard to keep the power on, our partners work tirelessly to provide food, shelter, education and critical services to our community. From the Habitat for Humanity of Southeast Ohio to the Sandusky County Food Pantry, read more below …
We recognize that financial hardships happen — especially during a pandemic — and sometimes you need a little extra support paying your bills. There are options to give you more time to pay, set up payment plans or work with a community agency to help reduce your payment. Payment Extension Get a little more time …
As the weather heats up, your air conditioner is working hard to keep your home comfortable. Check out low and no-cost summer savings tips and monitor your home’s energy usage using AEP Ohio’s Energy Usage Dashboard online tool. Log into your AEP Ohio account to take advantage of these features: Compare Month-by-Month Usage Data After clicking …
Many schools across the country are facing big challenges as a result of the pandemic. When a Wooster line crew saw a chance to help out a local elementary school, they hopped at the chance. Line Servicer Marc Conley was sent to Fredericksburg Elementary School April 15 to disconnect and remove a secondary power line. …
LIMA, Ohio – Despite what she calls an “upside-down world” around her, Tommie Harner’s days at the West Ohio Food Bank haven’t changed much over the past year. “Every day is busy,” said Harner, CEO. “Every day, I put on my coat, hat and gloves and get to work. Even if it’s something as simple …
AEP Ohio is donating $15,000 to Tri-State STEM+M Academy in Lawrence County to help upgrade its classroom facilities. The funds will be used to weatherize an unfinished portion of a neighboring warehouse – offered rent-free by the Lawrence Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) for the past five years – that will provide additional open lab space, …
National Lineworker Appreciation Day is Sunday, April 18. Please join us as we recognize our hardworking men and women who keep the power flowing. There are a variety of ways you can show your support: Add a Facebook frame. If you have a Facebook account, consider adding our profile frame to give our lineworkers a …
AEP Ohio’s Underground Network team includes roughly 60 lineworkers: 40 in Columbus, 10 in Canton and a handful of supervisors. They typically perform their daily work, well, underground. Not so the weekend of April 10, when AEP Ohio underground network lineworkers were among a 20-man crew swapping transformers out of a downtown Columbus building nearly …
Each day, at 42 service centers across the state, more than 600 AEP Ohio lineworkers (plus even more contract lineworkers) fan out across our service territory to bring life to the electric grid. Across 1,000 communities and 10,000 square miles, they install new equipment, maintain our infrastructure and bring power back after storms and other …
Wellston Technician Kris Irwin lost count of how many broken poles he saw during the February ice storm in southern Ohio. (“It was quite the experience. Definitely every other pole we pulled up to had snapped in half,” Irwin said.) He got so used to dealing with them that, just a few weeks later, when …
According to recent census data, the overall poverty rate for Athens County is the highest in Ohio. The statistics underscore the important work of Habitat for Humanity of Southeast Ohio, which was founded in 1990 to advocate for affordable housing in the area. Thirty years and 99 houses later, the organization is as needed as …
Springtime brings flowers, sunshine, longer days — and storm season. Thunderstorms, high winds and flash floods can pop up with little warning. When storms and high winds damage power lines, our crews work hard to get the power back on as quickly, safely and efficiently as possible. Follow these five simple tips to help keep …
AEP Ohio has many amazing women in its ranks: engineers, mechanics, technicians, customer advocates, analysts, advisors and management, just to name a few. As we honor Women’s History Month, we want to celebrate a few of our team members who inspire us. Julie Sloat, AEP Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Inspired by the …
Distribution System Supervisor Eric McCreery knows from his family ancestry a thing or two about the luck of the Irish. But you don’t reach 20 years of injury-free work by being lucky. McCreery’s underground network team in Canton is celebrating this significant Zero Harm milestone on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17. The team is a …
The people of Hurricane, West Virginia, have been incredibly kind to our crews restoring power following icy storms that knocked out 97,000 Appalachian Power customers. Just one of many humbling examples is the generosity showed by the Wingate by Wyndham hotel. The hotel opened in February last year. Six weeks later it shut down because …
When severe weather strikes and outages occur, our lineworkers are on the front lines. But there’s also a full team of employees working behind the scenes to support the effort and get power back on. Our team shifts into a different gear and takes on new roles when a large storm blows in. This is …
Emeka Okafor has 14 years of experience in the utility industry, including stints with Indiana Michigan Power (a sister company to AEP) and Duke Energy. He returned to AEP Ohio in 2019 to lead our engineering department. In honor of National Engineers Week we talked with Okafor about engineering at AEP Ohio and the future …
We’re continuing to closely monitor the path of the incoming winter weather. Our crews are ready to respond if outages occur. Here’s what you need to know to be prepared. Before the Storm Decide now what you’ll do if there’s an extended power outage. Check with those who are elderly or have medical conditions to …
Your electric meter is smart — and so are the engineers behind our smart grid. In honor of National Engineers Week, we spoke with Brad Smith, an engineer who manages our smart grid systems, to learn more about how AEP Ohio is building a smarter grid — and using data and analytics to improve your …
It’s important to remember that all downed lines are dangerous— they carry an electric current that can cause serious or even fatal injuries. Please take a few minutes to review these critical safety reminders should you ever find yourself in a potentially dangerous situation. What if I see a downed line? Don’t touch it or …
One way we’re celebrating Black History is by acknowledging the contributions of some inspiring men and women who have made a difference in the energy industry. Hazel O’Leary Hazel O’Leary served as the seventh United States Secretary of Energy. She was the first woman and the first African American to hold this position. Hazel changed …
Did you know there are many ways electrification can benefit your business’s bottom line? AEP Ohio has a team of experts dedicated to helping your business find ways to meet its sustainability goals — and optimize energy use along the way. Curious where to start and how we can help? Check out this quick Q&A to …
When used properly, space heaters are a great way to stay warm — but they can also pose significant risks and be a fire hazard. Before plugging in your space heater, review the following tips to keep you and your family safe and warm this winter. Always place a space heater on a hard, level …
During a medical emergency, every second matters. The quick response of four workers at the AEP storeroom on Westerville Road in northeast Columbus may have saved a man’s life. Equipment Operator Todd Flesher and contract employees Jerrod Beightler and Christian Paugh were helping unload wooden spools of electrical wire from a flatbed truck. It was …
Verging off Interstate 270 onto State Route 161 in northeast Columbus, Line Crew Supervisor Brad Lobmiller came to a sudden (but safe) stop on the exit ramp. It was 6:30 a.m., dark and icy. In front of him was a young man, maybe 18 years old, who minutes earlier had skidded on some black ice, …
Meet Chris, one of our 100+ customer design technicians. She plays an important role in getting new electric service set up for customers before the work is scheduled with a line crew. We spoke with Chris to learn more about her role and her relationship with AEP Ohio customers. Q: What does a Customer Design …
Thanks to John Bowman, an AEP Ohio technician, customers in the St. Clairsville area who eagerly awaited Santa’s arrival enjoyed a much cozier Christmas Eve. Bowman was driving to a job Dec. 23 when he spotted something amiss on the side of a country road in nearby Neffs. It was a dead tree outside our …
As we continue to explore the benefits of electrification for your business, we’re diving into electric vehicle (EV) adoption. Electric technologies are cost-effective for a number of personal and fleet applications, and we want to support you in this evolution. The benefits of electric transportation include lower maintenance and fuel costs, elimination of tailpipe emissions …
Ashlie is a utility forestry specialist with AEP Ohio. While foresters are busy keeping power lines and equipment free of trees, she helps relay important information to customers about work happening in their community and answer any questions they might have. We spoke with Ashlie to learn more about her relationship with AEP Ohio customers …
Vehicle accidents are often a cause of power outages. Take some simple steps that will help you be prepared this winter as you get behind the wheel. Maintain your car: check the battery, tire tread, windshield wipers, windows and antifreeze. Have on hand: flashlight, jumper cables, abrasive material shovel, ice scraper, flares and and blankets. …
In our last newsletter, we gave an overview of electrification and the boundless opportunities for savings and efficiency. Now, we’re going a little more in depth on a few technologies to consider as you plan for the future of your business. Let’s take a look. Heat Pump Technology Heat pump technology is the most efficient …
Winter weather has arrived in the Buckeye state. Take a few minutes and test your storm preparedness knowledge with the quiz below. How’d you do? Check out the videos below for additional information and share some of your best winter weather safety tips in the comments.
The AEP Ohio State Safety Committee has named Line Servicer Brandon Scott our November Safety Champion for recently putting a stop to a dangerous situation in northeast Columbus. Scott was responding to a power outage in the area when, arriving at a customer’s property, he saw a landscaping crew in a precarious spot in the …
This holiday season, you can gift yourself some savings and take control of your energy usage with one simple tool. Our project manager and energy expert, Brittany, is here to answer your questions about the Energy Dashboard. Below are commonly asked questions from AEP Ohio customers like you. Q: What is the Energy Dashboard? Brittany: …
The COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced the challenges many face with reliable access to WiFi across Appalachian Ohio. Internet connectivity offers access to necessities like education, health care and work opportunities. That’s why we’ve teamed up with Foundation for Appalachian Ohio (FAO) to address this challenge and help add new public WiFi access points in communities …
Need Help On Your Bill? Our Team is Here for You. If you’re facing unexpected financial challenges related to COVID-19, please let us know. Our team is here to help find a flexible payment solution that works for you. Reach out to our Customer Solutions team and we’ll talk it through to help get you …
Why Electric Should Be On Your Radar It’s important to consider the benefits of electrification as you plan for the future of your organization and its operations, including: Higher efficiency Lower maintenance costs Reduced greenhouse emissions Electric cars get a lot of attention, but fundamental changes in how businesses use energy are happening. Electrification of technologies …
Criminals will do anything to steal money from unsuspecting victims. With the COVID-19 pandemic and holidays right around the corner, this is a particularly high-risk time for many people including senior citizens, low-income residents and understaffed small businesses. It’s important to be alert and know how to spot the signs of a scammer. Scammers posing …
Twenty years ago, Cheryl Rawlins lost a friend to breast cancer. She became more vigilant about completing self-examinations. That’s how she discovered her own cancer. “It was very traumatic for our family,” said Eric Rawlins, a South Point line servicer and Cheryl’s husband. “At the time of Cheryl’s diagnosis, we had two teenagers and a …
Ross Correctional Institution (RCI) may seem like any other prison. But it’s different. Located in Chillicothe, Ohio, RCI has a unique program designed to decrease the number of inmates returning to prison. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, more than half of all inmates return within three to five years. One big reason is …
The Lions Way Bentley Path is now open in Bluffton. AEP Ohio was one of the many community partners who made it happen. For construction to move forward on the public works project, four of our utility poles needed to be moved. AEP Ohio also moved poles during the completion of earlier sections and will …
Arbor Day is celebrated every year on the last Friday in April. Unfortunately, COVID-19 caused the City of Chillicothe’s annual celebration to be postponed. If the event was going to happen this year – and it finally did, on Oct. 9 – there was no way Rich Simpson was going to miss it. Simpson is …
In his 23-year-career with AEP Ohio, Distribution System Supervisor Fred Walter has been around: Columbus, Athens, Lancaster and Crooksville. He has seen enough to appreciate the enduring safety success of McConnelsville Service Center. Walter started leading the garage in January and got to witness the team hit a huge milestone: 45 years without an employee …
What’s a smart grid? How does it work? What does it mean for me? Electric grids help deliver power to homes and businesses across our communities and throughout the world. Today, we’re working to bring you the latest in smart technologies designed to improve how power gets to your home. Here’s what it means for …
Jamie is a lineworker at the Delaware Service Center. His wife is a breast cancer survivor. He talks about AEP Ohio’s Pink Hat Initiative and why it’s so important for our employees to wear pink throughout Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Solar panels, usually mounted on your roof, convert the sun’s energy into usable electricity. Are you considering if solar is right for you and your family? There’s a lot to think about when determining if solar panels are a good option. Before you make a decision, consider some of the facts and read our helpful …
September is National Preparedness Month. This observance recognizes the importance of family and community disaster planning. Stay ahead of the curve — follow these steps and build your emergency preparedness plan today. Outline Your Guide Create a detailed plan of action outlining your step-by-step approach in the event of a disaster. Talk with your friends …
For over a century, New Lexington’s Newlon Tire has rolled with the changes in the tire industry. The business has quite a legacy, dating back to 1914 with its founder Pearly Newlon. It has celebrated success as one of the most prominent in the eastern U.S. tire industry, led by Fay and Joy Newlon. The …
September is National Preparedness Month. This observance recognizes the importance of family and community disaster planning. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought home the need for readiness. Stay ahead of the curve – follow these steps and build your disaster plan today. Outline Your Guide Create a detailed plan of action that outlines your step-by-step approach …
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed life for all of us. We understand that many families are experiencing financial troubles. If that’s you, we want to help you get back on track. Since March, we’ve temporarily suspended disconnections for non-payment. As part of our return to standard business operations, service disconnections for past due customer accounts …
Times are tough, and the Sandusky Food Pantry is one of the organizations providing direct relief to those in need. AEP Ohio is proud to lend a hand and, together with the AEP Foundation, is donating $3,000 to help feed families in Sandusky County. The food pantry serves approximately 700 households with 14,000 meals per …
Like many organizations affected by the coronavirus pandemic, the Lawrence County Senior Center has seen better days. Before COVID-19 hit, the center was already in a time of transition, operating out of a cramped single-wide mobile trailer until they could relocate into a bigger facility. Then the pandemic essentially shut down the operation. The health …
Domestic violence is not a new evil. Its increased menace during the time of COVID-19 is. According to Mary O’Doherty, executive director of the Ohio Domestic Violence Network (ODVN), the global pandemic has not only cut into the funding streams that support her member organizations’ 57 shelters, but it has created a more dangerous environment …
Whether your office space is slowly reopening under new guidelines or you are continuing to work from home, refresh yourself on energy efficiency best practices to help save energy and money. Conduct an energy audit. Once you get back to the office, take a look around your workspace. Check for opportunities to conserve energy. Unplug …
We know people are spending more time at home this summer to reduce the spread of COVID-19. This extra time can increase energy costs, especially with the rising summer temperatures. Try these inexpensive and easy tips at home to help reduce your energy consumption and stay cool, too. Embrace the natural light. If the sun’s …
Summertime means sunshine, longer days — and storm season. Humidity and warm air are often the cause of storms, which can leave your home damaged or without power. Consider these tips to keep your family and home safe. Have a safety plan. Most importantly, know where to go when a storm hits. Identify a safe …
For the past ten years, martial arts enthusiasts of every age and skill level have made Ohio Combat Sports Academy in Reynoldsburg their go-to destination. Attracted by an accommodating and diverse team of instructors, a multi-cultural group of students make the Academy a lively and energetic place. Over the years, owner and primary instructor Dustin …
If high winds cause outages, our crews are ready to respond and get your power back on. It’s always good to be prepared and in the know on weather that may affect your area. Here’s a few important tips to keep in mind: Before the storm Have a plan in the event of an extended …
We constantly remind customers about the dangers of downed power lines. Often it’s on social media or through public safety campaigns; sometimes, we have to make these pleas in person. Todd Woodrow, a customer design supervisor, and Dan Newhouse, a senior engineer, spent much of June 11 assessing damage caused by a powerful wind storm …
Thanks to a curated collection of upgrades and practices, the Zanesville Museum of Art exhibits how a non-profit organization can save on its operating costs. The museum recently used AEP Ohio’s Energy Advantage Program to receive free coaching, assessments and tools for energy savings. “Each dollar we save in energy costs is a dollar that …
It’s never too early to teach your kids about energy efficiency, and we’re here to help. Below are a few educational activities you can try with your kids this summer. Take a “Field Trip” Walk around your house with your child and pinpoint opportunities to save energy. Unplug appliances that can save power, such as …
Derek Goodburn works in the storeroom providing materials and equipment for AEP Ohio’s Columbus District. He’s also a traditional Guardsman serving part-time with the U.S. National Guard. So when Gov. Mike DeWine deployed these citizen soldiers to provide support in combatting the pandemic, Goodburn began a leave of absence with AEP and faithfully assumed his …
Before he was an AEP Ohio lineworker, Cody Grilliot was a linebacker on the Ohio University football team. During his time there, one of his coaches – who had leukemia – gave a speech about the lifesaving potential of joining the Gift of Life bone marrow and stem cell registry. So Grilliot filled out some …
AEP Ohio has a big new customer. Big as is lots of kilowatt hours, and big as in … well, you’ve probably heard of them. Thanks to a new business development partnership, AEP will be providing electric service to Google for its new 400-acre data center in New Albany, Ohio. The $600M project is bringing …
During his 35-year career as a lineworker with AEP Ohio, Ernie Woods developed a reputation as a go-to resource for his teammates in Wooster who wanted to know how to get a job done and get it done right. He was a meticulous planner, experienced and had an approachable demeanor that made it easy to …
Mike Griffith is a forester with AEP Ohio. Most days, he is in the field ensuring crews are working safely and maintaining the balance of the natural beauty of your neighborhood with the need to keep your power flowing. We spoke with Mike to learn more about forestry, his love for the great outdoors and …
With the summer heat rolling in, now is the time to start planning your energy-saving strategy. Follow these simple steps to help lower your electric bill as well as the temperature in your home this season. Replace Air Filters A new air filter will ensure that your central cooling system is operating at peak capacity. …
With the summer heat rolling in, now is the time to start planning your energy-saving strategy. Follow these simple steps to lower your electric bill this season. Replace Air Filters A new air filter will ensure your central cooling system is operating at peak capacity. This simple fix can reduce your energy consumption by up …
In the midst of uncertainty, AEP Ohio remains dedicated to highlighting our customers and partners who continuously make a difference in their communities. Each year, our Energy Efficiency Awards recognize those who have advanced the efforts of their operations, buildings or efficiency—sharing in better lighting, greater comfort and productivity. Energy cost savings is another plus. …
Every Friday during the school year in Ottawa, Ohio, KNAP Sack (Keeping Nutrition Available Program) provides weekend meals for children in pre-K through eighth grade who qualify for the school’s lunch program. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased need in the community and prompted the organization to hold additional food distribution events. More than 200 families …
As our energy efficiency programs are set to end on September 30, 2020, we would like to shine a light on partners who have supported our energy efficiency efforts over the years. Completed in two short weeks in November 2016, the GOJO® Wooster Campus project included the installation of lighting controls and indoor/outdoor LED (light-emitting …
AEP Ohio is working to keep the power flowing and looking for ways to better serve our customers during these uncertain times. Through June 30, 2020, you can pay your electric bill with a debit or credit card online or over the phone with no added processing fees. If you need to make payment arrangements …
When the first cases of COVID-19 were diagnosed in Ohio, public health experts projected a possible peak of nearly 10,000 new cases per day near the end of April, even with physical distancing measures in place. A surge of this magnitude would require large-scale medical support far outpacing current capacity. Hospitals braced for the worst …
Our lineworkers are critical infrastructure employees and have remained hard at work in our communities throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Essential electrical work must continue because, now as much as ever, customers rely on their power to keep flowing. April 18 is National Lineworker Appreciation Day. And our field personnel are certainly feeling the gratitude from …
Lineworkers are the backbone of AEP Ohio, working with thousands of volts of electricity, around the clock and in all weather conditions, to keep the power flowing to nearly 1.5 million customers across Ohio. These critical infrastructure employees continue to power and connect our communities in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, and we couldn’t …
We understand that many families are trying to navigate education and continued learning at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. To help support our teachers, students and families, we’ve compiled a list with a few of our favorite energy-related educational resources and activities. You never know, you might be teaching a future engineer. AEP Electric Universe …
As many Ohioans stock up at grocery stores and adjust to a new way of living, there are food banks, pantries and homeless shelters struggling to keep up in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. To help in that effort, the AEP Ohio Fund of the Columbus Foundation donated $180,000 in emergency relief to help …
Did you know that the leading cause of power outages is fallen trees and branches? That’s why AEP Ohio has a comprehensive program to manage trees and brush that grow around our lines and equipment—and it’s been shown to improve the reliability of our service. In fact, our maintenance program has reduced tree-related outages by …
At AEP Ohio, we’re committed to the health and safety of our customers, communities and employees. We’re continuing to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and don’t anticipate disruption in our ability to provide power to our customers. Billing & Financial Hardship We understand that many of our customers may be experiencing financial hardship due to …
As a student at West Virginia University, Don Stemple wanted to play football. But he wasn’t the fastest or most athletic player. While his high school team was West Virginia state champions, Stemple – unlike five of his teammates – never received a Division 1 scholarship offer. Nevertheless, Stemple entertained pie-in-the-sky dreams of playing professionally. …
At AEP Ohio there’s a personal duty to educate the next generation of electrical workers. To pass on knowledge once given to us; to show new team members the right and wrong way to complete a job; to make sure our brothers and sisters go home safe at the end of the day. We have …
Keith Kull is a 13-year meter servicer who works out of the Belmont Service Center in St. Clairsville. On the afternoon of January 31 he had completed some routine work and was headed back on U.S. Route 250. It was a normal day, “nothing out of the ordinary,” Kull says. But it was also a …
With 20 school buildings and nearly 16,000 students, the Dublin City School District is a significant energy consumer in central Ohio. Savings matter to AEP Ohio, and they have made a difference for the school system and the taxpayers it serves. When the district had the opportunity to participate in AEP Ohio’s Business Incentives Program, …
As driving conditions worsen over the winter months, the likelihood of an auto accident increases and so does the chance of crash-related power outages. Consider using the same tips that AEP Ohio lineworkers follow to help you stay safe behind the wheel this season. Be Prepared Before you hit the road, make sure your vehicle …
When it comes to street lights, you may not give them much thought. At AEP Ohio we know a lot about street lights but we want to know even more. A new “smart” street light program will help us do just that. AEP Ohio owns roughly 100,000 street lights that are leased to cities, villages …
Sometimes customers let us know about employees “standing around watching” on a job site. And they’re absolutely right. They are watching. But it’s not what you think. For certain jobs our employees assume the role of Qualified Observer. It’s an important safeguard our company puts into place to help ensure our employees are working safely each and …
Too often children go without winter coats to keep them warm during the coldest months. That’s why we teamed up with local organizations in Columbus and Chillicothe to help provide hundreds of winter coats to children in need. “When you’re able to give a coat to a kid with the tags on and let them …
Installing smart devices throughout your business is a great way to reduce your energy usage and save on your monthly bill. And, this technology is simple to use across your office or facility. Here are a few ways to incorporate smart devices into your business: Adjust Temperatures Anytime, Anywhere Connecting your phone or tablet to …
Your AEP Ohio account makes it easy to track your company’s energy usage, see your monthly bill or choose a payment method that best fits your needs. And, this can be done at any time from all devices — including your desktop, tablet or mobile phone. We’ve upgraded the data available to business customers so …
Capacitors are one of the most dangerous pieces of equipment our line workers touch. Capacitors store energy; they build up a charge and must be discharged before any work is done on them. In early December, Line Mechanic-C Jeremy Barth was up in a bucket finishing the installation of a group of capacitors in Southwest …
Berlin, Ohio – a town of around 900 people in Holmes County southwest of Canton – will once again transform into the mecca of high school girls basketball over Martin Luther King Jr. Weekend. The 17th annual Classic in the Country Challenge is a three-day showcase of the state’s best teams, bringing in elite players, …
It’s heard in meeting rooms at the AEP Ohio headquarters in Gahanna. It’s written in presentations to colleagues and communities. It’s seen right there on our website, AEPOhio.com. We’re committed to delivering unmatched service. We know what it takes to make that commitment to our customers, and it’s something our employees do every day. With …
Huckleberry House is a safe place and source of support for young people in the Central Ohio area—helping them and their families as they deal with some of the most difficult problems imaginable. Our crews jumped at the chance to help the organization bring extra sparkle to the holidays. With the help of AEP Ohio’s …
As the new year approaches, evaluate how your business can cut down on energy usage –– helping lower monthly bills, reduce emissions and eliminate waste. Here’s five helpful tips to help jumpstart energy efficiency in the workplace in 2020. Tip #1: Rely On Natural Light Sunlight is an energy efficient alternative that provides lighting similar …
It’s a return to tradition in McConnelsville, Ohio this year as American Electric Power employees and partners raised a giant tree on the town commons. Strung with lights and topped with a star, the 35- to 40-foot-tall evergreen was given to the town as a gift for the holidays. AEP Ohio’s McConnelsville Service Center wanted …
Spotting Santa and his sleigh is tricky, especially if it’s not Christmas Eve. But here’s an inside tip: he’s been regularly cruising the streets of New Philadelphia since Thanksgiving, and kids lucky enough to spot him will come away with a toy, too. April Leighliter, an AEP Ohio meter clerk in Gahanna (and one of …
On the night of Sept. 10, Columbus Line Crew Supervisor Sean Dugan responded to a report of a pole fire in Southeast Columbus. Any burning equipment would have been immediately visible in the darkness but, when Dugan arrived at the intersection, nothing was glowing. He took out his flashlight and began diligently inspecting the area …
Meteorologists are predicting high winds Wednesday afternoon into Thanksgiving morning that could threaten our power lines and equipment. Crews are on alert and ready to respond if power outages occur. We know outages are frustrating, especially during a holiday centered around food and family gatherings. If outages do occur, please know our crews will work …
What’s yellow, has a long neck and likes munching on foliage in tall trees? A giraffe, yes … and also a Mini-Jarraff, an urban tree-trimming vehicle that’s making line clearance safer and easier for AEP Ohio’s forestry team. The Mini-Jarraff is designed for Right of Way maintenance in neighborhoods and city streets. It has a …
Did you know? AEP Ohio helped the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium convert nearly 3 million holiday lights into energy efficient LED bulbs, creating one of the most spectacular light displays in central Ohio. Those LED bulbs have helped the Zoo use 70 percent less energy during Wildlights. You can enjoy Wildlights, efficiently powered by AEP …
Decorating for the holiday season is a great way to be merry and participate in the holiday season, but it can make a costly time of year even more expensive. Consider these energy efficient holiday decorations as you begin to get into the holiday spirit. Outdoor and Indoor Lights Lights hung on trees or roofs …
AEP Ohio recently presented affordable housing developer Woda Cooper Companies with an incentive of more than $22,000 through its EfficiencyCrafted Homes program. The incentive recognizes Woda Cooper Companies’ commitment to providing affordable utility solutions for low-income seniors through high energy efficiency standards. Open since late 2018, Fairwood Commons, a $12.2 million investment in Columbus’ Franklin …
Top photo: Jeff VanDine, center, with Community & Customer Experience Manager Greg Earl and Director of Customer Experience Katie Grayem after winning the AEP Culture Award. VanDine was honored for reaching out to coworkers when they’ve suffered a significant injury or illness. He always offers a simple but heartfelt gesture such as sending homemade banana …
AEP Ohio crews are beginning to use drones to improve the reliability of your service. They are just another layer of the technology working behind the scenes to keep your power on. With a high-resolution camera and infrared technology, inspection drones travel 200 to 300 feet above the lines to look for hotspots and potential …
Criminals will do anything to steal money from unsuspecting victims. And they don’t work regular hours or observe holidays. It’s important to be alert and know how to spot the signs of a scammer. Scammers posing as AEP Ohio employees often target those who are most vulnerable, including senior citizens, low-income residents and small business …
AEP Ohio is increasingly giving used vehicles to community organizations that need them. The program is fostering relationships with customers and cultivating our shared future, one donation at a time. Veterans groups and line worker training centers are among those with a need for digger derricks, pickup trucks, tractors, trailers, etc. AEP Ohio sends vehicles …
At AEP Ohio we strongly believe in “being your brother’s keeper” and looking out for each other’s safety. Dispatcher Anne Vascik remembered this mantra and put it into practice – in a very simple but important way. That’s why her peers across the company have selected her as the AEP Ohio Safety Champion for the …
Did you know that there are energy vampires hiding in your office that suck up your power, both day and night? Don’t let them drain your budget. Consider these simple solutions to stop energy vampires. Unplug electronic devices that are not in use. Many devices continue to use power, even when they’re turned off. Unplug …
When used properly, space heaters are a great way to stay warm in a chilly office environment. They can also pose significant risks and be a fire hazard in your workplace. Before plugging in your space heater this season, review the following tips to keep you and your coworkers safe and warm. Always place a …
For the thousands of runners competing in the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon this weekend, Mile 26 is about one thing: gutting out the final .2 miles. Dog-tired competitors who need a final boost can seek inspiration from AEP Ohio’s tent set up on the corner of West Long Street and Marconi Boulevard. It’s a …
Halloween can be a fun event for the whole family, but it’s important to make sure that everyone knows about potential hazards. Before your kids head out the door, talk about safety procedures and consider Louie’s tips so your night doesn’t turn into a spooky situation. Stay in sight. Use reflective tape to make yourself …
Grandview Line Servicer Paul “Buff” Creager and Columbus Meter Electrician-A Barry “Bubba” Hickle are each ringing in 50 years with our company. They’re good friends, and have plenty of stories to tell. Watch two of AEP’s longest-tenured employees talk about the multiple decades they’ve spent with the company. Published October 4, 2019
Doing the right thing isn’t always easy. It can take time and a little extra effort. But that’s exactly what John Kell did. And it’s why he has been nominated by his peers as the AEP Ohio Safety Champion for the month of September. Kell, a line crew supervisor in Grandview, took action after visiting …
Fallen trees and branches are one of the most common causes of power outages. That’s why keeping our lines and equipment free of trees is one of our top priorities. With a job that keeps her moving and is always changing, we recently caught up with Sarah Powell, an AEP Ohio forester, to talk …
Colder weather sometimes mean higher energy bills. Here are five quick tips to help manage energy costs and keep your business comfortable during the fall and winter months. Seal Any Leaks and Gaps Around the Workplace Did you know that leaky ducts can allow up to 30 percent of the air to escape? Before the …
As AEP employees continue to strive for Zero Harm, the Findlay line department can be being used as an example that a 100% safety record is achievable. That’s because the team recently hit an impressive safety milestone: 3,100 days without injury. “Eight and half years of no pain or suffering – it’s an amazing achievement,” …
The Barry Family home was destroyed July 8. A propane leak in the basement caused an explosion that collapsed the back kitchen, knocked the home off its foundation and blew out the side walls and windows. AEP Ohio Line Servicer Jay Leslie saw the devastation firsthand when he was called on the scene to shut …
Did you know the concept of barn quilts was born in Ohio? Did you know that there’s a dedicated quilt trail that runs across our state? You may not … but you could probably guess that if we were asked to lend a hand hanging them then we probably would say yes. Last month line …
National Preparedness Month is the perfect time of year to plan ahead. Knowing what to do when a disaster strikes is critical for keeping you and others safe at home and work. Start by assembling an emergency kit that takes into consideration your specific needs. Take this short quiz to test your knowledge on what …
An AEP safety motto is if you see something, say something. Columbus Technician Kris Silas sees more dangers than most … and, importantly, he also does something. “I had a previous supervisor who said that if you don’t have time to take care of a bad situation right away, then when will you?” Silas says. …
As the summer winds down, you may be thinking about ways to boost your curb appeal with easy projects like landscaping changes and lighting upgrades. For any project that requires you to dig, it’s important that you first know where the underground utility lines are located around your property. Call 811 at least 48 hours …
Cops and Barbers is an initiative to help youth in the inner city of Columbus start the school year right by providing them with a positive perspective on police and giving them fresh haircuts and new school supplies. The two-day event took place on Sunday, August 18, 2019 in Columbus’ south side and Hilltop areas …
Employees at the Delaware Service Center had been talking about helping their community but were undecided on what to do. One of the lineman’s wife is a teacher and she brought up a glaring need in area schools: not enough supplies and a list of required items that many families struggled to afford. Line Mechanic-C …
The Muskingum County Blue Ribbon Fair has been around for 173 years. A lot has changed in that time, but you’d be forgiven for thinking nothing ever changes. And the people of Zanesville like it that way. “We have people who come back year after year to enjoy the same things,” says Secretary of the …
When temperatures spike, so can your electric bill. Try these easy energy efficiency tips to help you save energy and money — all while keeping your family cool this summer. Close blinds and curtains to keep the sun out and cool air inside. Keeping window coverings shut during the hottest parts of the day can help …
Severe flooding is a growing threat to many Midwestern communities. It’s a well-known and recurring concern in Western Ohio – especially in Findlay and Ottawa, which were hit by a “100-year flood” in August 2007. Water from the Blanchard River spilled into the low-lying towns, causing more than $100 million in damage in Findlay and …
Don Brouse, a technician in Coshocton, has been named AEP Ohio Safety Champion for the month of June. Brouse is planning to retire in April 2020 and is being recognized by his peers for 45 years of injury-free service. What are some common safety hazards a technician faces? Ninety percent of it is driving. Then …
Six lineworkers. More than a decade without injury. To say they’re a close-knit team would be an understatement – they’re like brothers. They’re a drama-free group that’s focused on getting the job done, taking care of their community and watching out for one another to make sure they each go home safe every night. The …
The Columbus Clippers have a new heavy hitter wowing fans at Huntington Park this season: Louie the Lightning Bug. Louie is making occasional appearances at Huntington Park this season as part of AEP Ohio’s new partnership with the Clippers. Fans are seeing a number of promotional events at the ballpark, including marketing materials, public address …
Lineworker Mike Wise is celebrating 50 years with AEP – all at the Van Wert Service Center. We talked to him about why he loves AEP Ohio and what drives his dedication. What brought you to AEP? I started at the Van Wert service building right out of high school. I was 18. I worked …
Summer storms are unpredictable and can happen in a flash. Many of us have seen that beautiful blue sky quickly fade when a summer storm rolls in. When storms damage power lines, our crews work hard to get your power back on. Here’s what you need to know to help you stay safe, prepared and …
From thunderstorms to snow, weather in Ohio is unpredictable. When major storms damage power lines, our crews work hard to get your power flowing again. We’ll always keep you informed and offer multiple ways for you to stay in the know: Stay connected with the AEP Ohio mobile app, where you can report your outage …
The next generation of power restoration equipment is rolling into AEP Ohio’s service territories. The Columbus Southeast and Findlay garages are now home to the Altec TDA58 — better known as the backyard bucket — a vehicle that is smaller and taller than similar models. What makes the backyard bucket unique is its extended reach …
At AEP Ohio, we love trees. We just hate power outages. And, like you, we appreciate the outdoors and understand your desire to plant new trees when the weather permits. Your local nursery can help you find the right tree for the right place. Armed with the info below, let them know how far away …
Portable generators can be useful when temporary or remote electric power is needed, but also can be hazardous if they aren’t isolated properly. To properly isolate portable generators, be careful you never connect it to an electrical outlet. Instead, appliances should be connected directly to the generator. The easiest way to use a generator is …
What does it take to be an AEP Ohio lineworker? Well, a strong cup of coffee and a fierce commitment to safety are musts. To celebrate Lineworker Appreciation Day, we’re following experienced lineworker Steve Baehr as he spends the day keeping the lights on for our customers. (Part 1 of 5) Regulators. Crossarms. Bypass …
Research reveals that 84% of consumers would buy an electric vehicle (EV) if they could see that it was cheaper to operate and no more expensive than a traditional vehicle. To help, AEP Ohio has launched an online tool so car buyers can compare the total cost of owning and operating an EV with that …
The Joint Systems Manufacturing Center in Lima rarely opens its doors to the public. As the last remaining tank manufacturer in the United States, the facility is high on security and low on willingness to provide guided tours. But they were eager to welcome 95-year-old Albert Holman, a decorated tank battalion commander in Newark who …
Legacy Community Park is a big project inspired by a little boy. Wyatt Adkins was born in December 2008 with a rare congenital heart defect known as hypoplastic left heart syndrome. He had open-heart surgery at six months old. Though the prognosis for the procedure was positive, Wyatt went into cardiac arrest during the procedure …
You expect safe, reliable electricity and we’re working hard to deliver it. Improving service means trimming trees, repairing underground cable and testing new overhead lines to keep your power on. Check out the video below to see us in action: Here’s a snapshot of the work we’re doing around Ohio: A Smarter Grid: Improving how power …
AEP Ohio helped The Bellville Neighborhood Outreach Center upgrade its outdated lighting system to energy efficient LEDs. By partnering with Loeb Electric and Phillips, AEP Ohio replaced nearly 200 inefficient fixtures and bulbs with LEDs that will help the center save power and money. These upgrades will reduce electricity consumption by 70-90 percent and save …
Ever dreamed of an outdoor office? You’re in luck – we’re hiring lineworkers! In the video below, you can hear firsthand what our crews have to say about working with AEP Ohio. Learn more and apply today by at the AEP Career site. You can see what positions we have posted, plus set up alert …
Energy is an important business resource, and a cost worth managing. Whether you’re looking for simple efficiency upgrades or developing a long-term improvement plan, an energy audit or assessment will help you diagnose the right strategies for saving energy and money. It will also help you create a more comfortable business environment. When your business …
Left to right: Colton Childs, James Powell, Danny James, Braden Hardesty and Terry Swingle State Route 78 in McConnelsville is hilly and curvy – especially when it’s dusted with snow, as it was on January 15. Line mechanics Colton Childs, Terry Swingle, Danny James, James Powell and Braden Hardesty know to drive it cautiously and …
Many AEP employees have taken CPR training and IBEW Local Union 1466 Business Manager Rod Cockrell began taking it in 2002, right about the time he joined the Chillicothe Line Department and his daughter, Phoebe, was born. Sixteen years later, this training may have saved her life. For the past few months, Phoebe has been …
On Nov. 12, Newark Line Servicer Rick Creager was driving to work like usual. A little past 6 a.m. he turned onto Main Street in Alexandria and saw something decidedly unusual: a fire burning on the porch of one of the homes lining the street. Creager immediately pulled to the side of the road and …
The Huckleberry House provides support to youth and families in Central Ohio who are dealing with abuse, poverty, homelessness and other life challenges. The organization got a little support of its own when AEP lit up the house with Christmas lights for the first time in more than 40 years. AEP employees provided “A Very …
With the help of AEP Ohio, the offices at the Girl Scouts of Ohio’s Heartland Council are looking a little brighter.
Written by Tim Wells, Economic Development Manager at AEP Ohio The U.S. market for electric vehicles (EV) continues to grow. According to the International Energy Agency, 280,000 EVs were sold in the U.S. in 2017 — up from 160,000 in 2016. You can expect to see more EVs on the road as major automakers, including …
Did you know the majority of Totino’s pizza rolls sold in the U.S. are made in Wellston, Ohio? Or that Heinz makes ketchup in Fremont, Ohio? In fact, many of your favorite foods are made in the Buckeye State and in production facilities powered by AEP Ohio. Food production is an important industry for Ohio …
AEP Ohio is investing in new technologies to make the power grid more reliable and improve your service. Here’s a look at the enhancements that will simplify your life, save you energy and lower your bill.
DACR, short for Distribution Automation Circuit Reconfiguration, is a new technology that detects a power outage and automatically reroutes the power – minimizing the number of people impacted within minutes. Check out these videos to learn more about how this technology is an important part of our plan to build a better, faster and smarter …
VVO, short for Volt Var Optimization, is a proven technology that assures electricity is more efficiently transmitted through our power lines and into your home. It automatically adjusts voltage levels on the power lines to improve energy efficiency and minimize energy loss. At the end of the day, it reduces the amount of electricity your …
Smart meters are electric meters equipped with two-way communication technology. They provide near real-time electric readings and securely send customers’ usage information to AEP Ohio for operational and billing purposes. Smart meters improve billing accuracy (you’ll no longer receive estimated bills) and eliminate the need for meter readers to enter onto customers’ property. Smart meters …
Employees in Canton received a glowing thank you note from the Refuge of Hope, an organization that helps homeless men in Stark County. The reason for the letter? AEP Ohio did the right thing in a tough situation. A brick building in downtown Canton started falling unexpectedly and was determined to be structurally unsafe. The …
On April 12, 2018, at around 11:30 a.m. an equipment issue de-energized the Taylor substation in Northeast Columbus. The event caused 6,083 customers to lose their power. For most customers, the normal restoration time for this type of outage is approximately 83 minutes; however, all 6,083 customers had their power back in a mere 100 …
Photo: Ian Koblitz, second from left, accepts the Chairman’s Life Saving Award. Two people were killed in a car crash in March 2018 on Interstate 270 in Columbus. That number may have been higher were it not for the quick response of Ian Koblitz. Koblitz, a distribution dispatcher for AEP Ohio at the Groveport Operations …
Photo: Dave Murphy, left, and his brother, Jack Dave Murphy, an equipment operator at AEP’s generation plant in Conesville, Ohio, was hired in 1973. His 45 years with the company put him squarely among the 100 longest-tenured employees, and he has no plans to retire. Impressed? His brother isn’t. That’s because Jack Murphy, a line …
Falling tree limbs are one of the most common causes of a power outage — a single branch can leave thousands of customers without power. That’s why AEP Ohio has a comprehensive program to manage tree brush that grows around power lines. By planting the right tree in the right place, you can help preserve your community’s …
When a severe storm is on the radar, our work begins well before the storm starts as we track incoming weather to keep a close eye on parts of our service territory that may be affected. When major storms damage power lines, we work hard to return power to the greatest number of customers as …
Utility companies from across the country come together when disasters strike. AEP Ohio recently sent 14 line workers and four storm restoration experts to Puerto Rico to assist with power restoration efforts in areas devastated by Hurricane Maria in September. Our crews joined nearly 5,500 restoration workers already on the island who are assisting the …
Meet Cathy – she’s a breast cancer survivor and one of the many reasons why our crews go pink in October. We’re raising awareness and hope with each pole climbed. Have you seen our crews sporting their pink hard hats in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month?
Our work begins well before a storm starts as we track incoming weather to keep a close eye on parts of our service territory that may be impacted. After a storm hits, we assess the damage and determine staffing needs— sometimes coordinating crews from other parts of Ohio and other states to help with restoration …
When the call comes to help, our crews are always willing. More than 700 AEP Ohio employees and contractors went to Florida ahead of Hurricane Irma to assist with power restoration efforts. For decades, utility companies across the country have come together when disasters strike. Having extra hands on deck can help get power back …
Meet Nick. He’s one of AEP Ohio’s many dedicated line mechanics who work around the clock to make sure the power stays on.
