Explaining Community Choice Aggregation: What It Is and How You Can Join

The City of Columbus’ Community Choice Aggregation Program (CCA), known as Clean Energy Columbus, is a community-wide initiative that provides residents with cleaner and more competitive energy options.

Governed by the City, this program uses the collective buying power of residents and small businesses to negotiate better terms for electricity supply.

Community Choice Aggregation—What it is and What it isn’t

Aggregation IS

  • Free – join and participate for no additional cost
  • Competitive – typically offers better rates than you can get directly from the utility company
  • Consistent – provides protection against fluctuating utility rates
  • Green – enables access to renewable energy as part of your energy supply


Aggregation IS NOT

  • Mandatory – opt in or out at any time without penalty
  • Guaranteed – Energy prices fluctuate, and, occasionally, market rates may be lower than negotiated CCA rates


For a more detailed explanation of how Columbus’ CCA works, visit Clean Energy Columbus: What is Community Choice Aggregation and How Does it Benefit You?

Who is Eligible?

Residents of Columbus are eligible to participate in Clean Energy Columbus, except for those who:

  • Reside outside of the incorporated limits of the City of Columbus
  • Are currently under contract with another electric supplier (opt-out option).
  • Are enrolled in the Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP).


Residents with budget billing agreements with their utility provider, such as AEP Ohio, are still eligible to participate.

What Changes Can I Expect to My Electrical Services When I Select Clean Energy Columbus?

Once you opt-in, your bill and how you receive electricity remains the same. AEP Ohio continues to deliver electricity, manage service-related issues, and send you a consolidated bill that includes charges from the new energy supplier (AEP Energy). A sample bill can be viewed here.

How Do I Join?

Participating in Clean Energy Columbus is easy. You can join at any time. You simply need to use this link that will redirect you to AEP Energy to check your eligibility and access the enrollment page. You can also call AEP Energy at 877-726-0214 to check your eligibility and enroll.

Clean Energy Columbus offers transparent pricing, favorable terms, flexibility without termination fees, and cleaner energy sources for its residents and small businesses. It’s a community-driven solution that empowers residents to make environmentally conscious choices while ensuring affordability and reliability.