Blog Posts.

A Growing Green Economy

The transition to clean energy is creating new job opportunities across Central Ohio. A 2024 study commissioned by Sustainable Columbus found approximately 19,400 green jobs in the region today, with demand for 21,600 more workers over the next decade. Notably, 63% of these jobs are accessible with a high school diploma, some college, or an associate degree, highlighting the importance of workforce training programs. To help meet this need, Clean Energy Columbus has invested more than $800,000 in workforce development initiatives connecting residents with training, credentials, and jobs.

Eckerd Connects: Preparing Workers for Growing Industries

Eckerd Connects helps individuals overcome barriers to employment through education, training, and career support. Eckerd just completed its second Advanced Manufacturing-Clean Energy cohort in partnership with Columbus State Community College. Through this free, accelerated training program, participants earned industry-recognized credentials, received workforce readiness training, and connected directly with employers. The most recent cohort enrolled 17 participants, graduated 10 individuals, and helped six graduates earn their Certified Manufacturing Associate certification. Graduate Samantha Arroyo completed the program, earned her credential, and secured employment with Kason Industries. Programs like Eckerd Connects help residents gain practical skills while meeting the workforce needs of growing industries.

Goodwill Columbus: Expanding Access to Solar Careers

Goodwill Columbus provides workforce development, job training, and career coaching for individuals facing barriers to employment. Through its Columbus Works program, Goodwill has served 132 individuals and helped 71 participants secure employment. The organization is also leading the Goodwill Clean Tech Accelerator, a solar workforce training program designed to prepare workers for careers in the clean energy sector. Participants receive hands-on training, workplace readiness support, and certifications including OSHA-10, CPR/First Aid, solar installation, and racking system credentials. A new solar training lab gives participants experience with mock roof installations, battery storage systems, conduit and wiring exercises, and electrical safety training. Goodwill plans to deliver three cohorts in 2026, with goals of graduating more than 30 participants and placing at least 24 graduates into clean tech jobs.

IMPACT Community Action: Helping Young Adults Get Started

IMPACT Community Action is a Columbus-based nonprofit working to fight poverty and build economic stability across Franklin County. Its EMPOWERED! Pre-Apprenticeship Program helps young adults prepare for careers in the skilled trades through hands-on training, career readiness support, and industry-recognized credentials, including OSHA-10 and NCCER certifications. Participants also connect with apprenticeship programs and potential employers. Earlier this year, EMPOWERED! celebrated the graduation of its 13th cohort, with 20 young adults completing the program and preparing to enter apprenticeship programs and full-time employment opportunities.

ARCH Reentry: Creating Pathways Through Solar Training

ARCH Reentry supports justice-impacted individuals by providing workforce training, reentry services, and employment support. Its solar workforce development program operates both in correctional facilities and in the community, helping participants prepare for careers in the clean energy industry. Training includes workplace readiness, financial literacy, resume and interview preparation, hands-on solar installation instruction, and preparation for the ETA Photovoltaic Installer credential. Participants are also connected with employers and apprenticeship opportunities. To date, ARCH has enrolled 52 participants, supported 32 program completions, helped participants earn 19 industry credentials, and connected seven graduates to employment opportunities. The program works with correctional institutions, community partners, and employers to build a pathway from training to long-term careers in the solar industry.

Looking Ahead

Programs like Eckerd Connects, Goodwill Columbus, IMPACT Community Action, and ARCH Reentry are helping residents gain the skills, credentials, and support needed to succeed in the growing green economy. By preparing workers for in-demand careers and expanding economic opportunity, these programs are helping build a stronger, more resilient Columbus and ensuring the benefits of clean energy reach residents, families, and communities across the City.

Why Trees Matter

Trees provide benefits that extend far beyond their beauty. They help make Columbus healthier, cooler, and more resilient by improving air quality through absorbing carbon dioxide and other pollutants, cooling neighborhoods through shade and reducing the urban heat island effect, reducing stormwater runoff and helping prevent flooding, supporting birds and wildlife by creating valuable urban habitats, and enhancing quality of life by creating greener, healthier, and more enjoyable community spaces.

How the Tree Assistance Program Works

Clean Energy Columbus is helping grow a greener Columbus through its Community Grant Fund. This year, the program invested $25,000 in the Columbus Tree Assistance Program (TAP), a partnership between Columbus Recreation and Parks and Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District. TAP provides funding and technical support for community-led tree planting projects on private property within the City of Columbus. Eligible applicants include civic associations, neighborhood associations, homeowners associations, and other organized community groups. Accepted applicants work closely with Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District, which helps coordinate purchases and vendors to make projects more accessible and reduce financial barriers. Projects are evaluated based on canopy impact, community engagement, long-term maintenance plans, and benefits to underserved communities.

Expanding Columbus' Urban Canopy

According to Columbus' Urban Forestry Master Plan, a recent tree canopy assessment found that only 22% of Columbus is covered by trees. Expanding the City's tree canopy is one of the most effective ways to create long-term environmental and community benefits as Columbus works toward the goals of its Climate Action Plan and Urban Forestry Master Plan. The benefits of planting trees extend well beyond the day they're planted — as trees mature, they help cool neighborhoods, improve air quality, manage stormwater, and create greener, healthier places to live.

Building a More Sustainable Future Together

Clean Energy Columbus is proud to support projects like the Tree Assistance Program that help translate community participation in the aggregation program into visible, lasting improvements across our City. To learn more about the Columbus Tree Assistance Program, visit the Franklin Soil and Water Conservation District website.

Rising Temperatures, Rising Demand

Summer is here, and so are rising temperatures across Columbus. Hotter summers mean higher electricity use — air conditioners and cooling systems run longer and harder, increasing demand across homes, businesses, and community spaces. When many people use energy at the same time, especially during peak afternoon hours, this surge can strain the electric grid, and extreme heat can reduce how efficiently energy is generated and delivered.

Clean Energy & Reliability

Clean Energy Columbus plays an important role in addressing these challenges. Through the City's community choice aggregation program, more than 200,000 households receive 100% clean energy, helping reduce emissions while maintaining reliable service. By supporting renewable energy and diversifying how power is supplied, Columbus is building a more flexible energy system that can better withstand peak demand and extreme conditions.

Building a More Resilient Columbus

In addition to clean energy supply, the City is expanding access to cooling centers and investing in resilience hubs to help residents stay safe during extreme heat. Sustainable Columbus is partnering with Maize Manor Methodist Church in North Linden to create the city's first resilience hub. Already a community resource through its half-acre farm — which produced 9,000 pounds of food last year — the church received a City grant to install solar panels and battery storage that will provide backup power during outages, giving residents a place to stay comfortable, charge devices, and safely store temperature-sensitive medications when extreme weather impacts the community.

Energy Efficiency Kits: Small Tools, Real Savings

Columbus is also helping residents reduce energy use through efficiency kits distributed to households spending a large share of their income on energy bills. Each kit includes LED light bulbs, a furnace filter indicator, advanced power strips, LED night lights, and rope caulk and window insulation — simple, practical upgrades that improve comfort and cut electricity use during hot weather.

Expanding Ohio-Based Clean Energy

Several major energy projects are helping grow Ohio's clean energy supply. The Atlanta Farms Solar Project (180 MW, Pickaway County) is one of the largest in Ohio, and the Clinton Solar Project (39 MW, Clinton County) is contributing to Ohio's growing renewable portfolio. In addition to solar, the Emerson Creek Wind Farm (83 MW, Huron & Erie Counties) further strengthens the program's clean energy mix, along with several additional projects across the state. Together, these investments support a local, reliable, resilient energy future for Columbus.

Curious About Rooftop Solar?

Clean Energy Columbus is partnering with Solar United Neighbors (SUN) to bring the Columbus Area Solar Co-op to Central Ohio. A solar co-op makes going solar easy and affordable — you'll benefit from a group discount and expert guidance from a trusted nonprofit, and Columbus residents may be eligible for a City-funded rebate covering up to 20% of installation costs (up to $5,000). The program is open to homeowners, nonprofits, and small businesses in Franklin, Delaware, Licking, Pickaway, Fairfield, Madison, and Union Counties. Sign up for free at SolarUnitedNeighbors.org/Columbus.

Summer Energy Efficiency Tips

Residents can play an important role by reducing energy use at home. Simple, seasonal adjustments can help lower bills and ease demand on the grid: change air filters and schedule an A/C tune-up, seal gaps around windows and doors to keep cool air inside, and use LED lighting and energy-efficient appliances. These steps help your household save energy while supporting the broader impact of Clean Energy Columbus.

Powering a More Sustainable Future

Clean Energy Columbus continues to invest in local projects that deliver clean energy, create jobs, and strengthen Ohio's energy infrastructure. Together, these investments — along with the everyday choices residents make — are helping build a more sustainable Columbus for years to come.

What Is Community Choice Aggregation?

Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) is a mechanism that allows cities to purchase electricity on behalf of their residents and small businesses. Instead of each household defaulting to the utility's standard rate, the entire community pools its buying power and the City negotiates on your behalf — securing cleaner energy at rates that have beaten AEP Ohio's standard offer in 5 out of 6 contract years since launch.

Why Columbus Voters Approved It

Nothing changes about your electric service. AEP Ohio still handles billing and delivery. There's no interruption of service. You can opt in or out at any time with no fees or penalties. CCA simply gives Columbus a stronger collective voice in how electricity is sourced and priced.

A New Rate for Year Six: 10.01¢/kWh

In November 2020, Columbus voters overwhelmingly approved the creation of a clean energy aggregation program. Since June 2021, Clean Energy Columbus has been delivering on that mandate — now ranked #4 nationally among CCA programs for clean power sales by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

More Than Savings — Community Benefits

Clean Energy Columbus has locked in a fixed rate of 10.01¢/kWh for the Jun 2026–May 2027 contract year — below AEP Ohio's standard Price to Compare of 10.97¢/kWh. That's approximately $115 in annual savings for a household using 1,000 kWh/month, with price stability locked in for the full 12 months.

The program reinvests in Columbus through $84M+ in cumulative participant savings, $500,000 in neighborhood grants, $800,000+ in clean energy workforce training, and partnerships with organizations like YouthBuild and IMPACT Community Action.

Columbus's Environmental Impact So Far

Earth Month is a reminder that Columbus is already taking meaningful action. The clean energy delivered through Clean Energy Columbus to date is the equivalent of removing 1.4 million cars from the road, preserving 6.2 million acres of forests, and providing electricity for nearly 700,000 homes.

Small Steps Toward a Greener Home

Earth Month is also a great time to look at simple ways to reduce energy use at home. Seal gaps and leaks around windows and doors. Switch to LED lightbulbs and ENERGY STAR®-rated appliances. Adjust your thermostat by even 1–2°F when away — these small changes compound into meaningful savings over time.

How Clean Energy Columbus Supports Sustainability

Clean Energy Columbus makes it easy to support clean energy without changing daily habits. By aggregating community demand, the program secures 100% clean electricity at competitive rates. Since launch, participants have saved over $84 million combined.

A Clean Energy City, Powered by Ohio Projects

Clean Energy Columbus sources power from a mix of clean energy resources, including Ohio-based renewable projects. In-state capacity includes 180 MW of solar from Pickaway County (Atlanta Farms Solar), 83 MW of wind from Huron and Erie Counties (Emerson Creek Wind), and 39 MW of solar from Clinton County (Clinton Solar). By supporting Ohio-based projects, the program creates local jobs and keeps economic benefits close to home.

Environmental Impact in Numbers

The clean energy delivered through the program is equivalent to taking 1.4 million cars off the road, preserving 6.2 million acres of forests, and providing electricity for nearly 700,000 homes. These numbers represent real, tangible progress toward a healthier, more sustainable Columbus.

Advancing Equity Through Clean Energy

Clean Energy Columbus was built with equity at its core. Every participating resident receives the same 100% renewable electricity regardless of neighborhood. Cleaner air and renewable energy access help reduce long-standing environmental health disparities. Development of local clean energy projects creates jobs and economic opportunities across Ohio.

How Aggregation Shows Up on Your Bill

Community choice aggregation allows Clean Energy Columbus to purchase clean electricity on behalf of residents at a stable, predictable price set each June. For Jun 2026–May 2027, the CEC supply rate is 10.01¢/kWh — lower than AEP Ohio's standard Price to Compare of 10.97¢/kWh.

What to Look For on Your AEP Ohio Bill

Look for the Generation/Supply section of your AEP Ohio bill. If enrolled in CEC, you'll see: Generation Supplier listed as AEP Energy (not AEP Ohio); Rate per kWh reflecting the CEC rate; and Usage (kWh) showing your total consumption. Everything else — delivery, transmission, taxes — is unchanged.

Enrollment: How It Works

Clean Energy Columbus operates on an opt-out basis. You're automatically enrolled if you live within Columbus city limits, have AEP Ohio as your utility, and aren't already with a third-party supplier. You can opt in or out at any time by calling AEP Energy at 1-888-307-0264 — completely free.

Looking Ahead to 2026

In 2026, Clean Energy Columbus residents will see a redesigned website with an interactive Ohio projects map and streamlined rate and bill tools. CEC will also grow its education and workforce efforts, beginning with the February 26th career fair at Eastland Career Center.

Why Clean Energy Columbus Matters

Clean Energy Columbus strengthens Columbus by lowering utility costs, reducing emissions, and supporting local investment. It serves over 220,000 residents and has delivered more than $84 million in cumulative savings. In 2025, CEC invested over $800,000 in local workforce programs.

Success Story: Ronald Armstrong

'Through ARCH's solar installation program — a CEC community partner — I earned my PV1 certification right after prison. ARCH helped me get a job making over $45 an hour. For the first time in my life, I'm focused on a career I love.' — Ronald Armstrong, ARCH Solar Installation Graduate

Five Years of Impact

Clean Energy Columbus launched in June 2021. Five years in: over 220,000 Columbus residents and businesses are participating, the program has delivered over $70 million in cumulative savings, and emissions reductions are equivalent to removing 1.4 million cars from the road annually — ranking CEC #4 nationally for CCA clean power sales.

2025 Highlights

2025 highlights: $800,000+ in clean energy workforce training helping 500+ Ohioans; $500,000 community grant supporting a solar co-op and energy efficiency kit pilot for 200+ homes; Clinton Solar Farm (39 MW, Clinton County) coming online in October 2025.

Celebrating EMPOWERED! Cohort 11

On December 11th at Impact Community Action, Clean Energy Columbus celebrated EMPOWERED! Cohort 11 — 20 graduates who completed rigorous clean energy workforce training. Guest speaker Kristen Atha, Director of Columbus Water and Power, inspired graduates with her vision for a cleaner Columbus.

What Is EMPOWERED!?

EMPOWERED! is a clean energy workforce training program launched in partnership with IMPACT Community Action. It provides hands-on training in solar installation, electrical systems, and clean energy project management — with a focus on economic equity and creating pathways for residents who face barriers to employment.

Real Careers, Real Impact

Graduates earn certifications like PV1, secure jobs in the clean energy industry, and in some cases dramatically change their life trajectories. Clean Energy Columbus has invested over $800,000 in workforce training programs like EMPOWERED! — supporting more than 500 Ohioans in securing clean energy employment.

How the Program Connects to Clean Energy Columbus

Every Clean Energy Columbus participant helps fuel demand for Ohio-based clean energy projects — and those projects create the jobs that programs like EMPOWERED! train people to fill. Your participation supports local clean energy, which supports local jobs, which strengthens Columbus communities.

Five Years of Delivering on the Promise

Clean Energy Columbus is marking five years of delivering on its promise: 100% clean electricity at competitive rates, through the collective buying power of more than 220,000 participants. Since launch, the program has saved participants over $70 million compared to AEP Ohio's standard Price to Compare.

Growing Ohio Clean Energy Capacity

The program's Ohio-based clean energy portfolio continues to grow. The 39 MW Clinton Solar Farm in Clinton County came online in October 2025, adding new in-state solar capacity. Combined with Atlanta Farms Solar (180 MW) and Emerson Creek Wind (83 MW), Ohio-based projects are a meaningful part of the clean energy mix.

What's Coming This Winter

As energy usage rises with winter heating demands, Clean Energy Columbus's fixed rate provides price certainty through May 2026. Participants won't see supply rate changes mid-year — meaningful protection against the volatility that affects AEP Ohio's variable standard rate.

Generation/Supply: The CEC Section

When you're enrolled in Clean Energy Columbus, your AEP Ohio bill still looks largely the same — one bill from AEP Ohio. The key difference is in the Generation/Supply section: your supplier will be listed as AEP Energy rather than AEP Ohio, and the rate will reflect the current CEC contract rate.

What Doesn't Change

AEP Ohio continues to own and maintain the local wires, deliver electricity to your home, respond to outages, and manage your account. Delivery charges, transmission fees, and taxes are all unchanged by CEC enrollment.

How Enrollment Works

Clean Energy Columbus enrolls eligible AEP Ohio customers automatically each June. Quarterly enrollment refreshes catch new residents. You can opt in or out at any time at no cost — just call AEP Energy at 1-888-307-0264.

Is Clean Energy Columbus Right for Me?

Clean Energy Columbus is available to residential and small commercial AEP Ohio customers with a Columbus service address. If you've received a welcome letter, you're already enrolled and receiving 100% clean energy at the current CEC rate — no action required.

How Do I Know If I'm Enrolled?

Check your AEP Ohio bill's Generation/Supply section. If it shows AEP Energy as your supplier and a rate matching the current CEC contract (10.01¢/kWh for Jun 2026–May 2027), you're enrolled. If not, call 866-856-5654 to check your status.

What If I Want to Leave?

Clean Energy Columbus is 100% voluntary with no fees or penalties to leave. Call AEP Energy at 1-888-307-0264 to opt out at any time. You'll return to AEP Ohio's standard supply service immediately. You can also rejoin later with no waiting period.

The Jobs Behind the Clean Energy

When you participate in Clean Energy Columbus, your electricity demand fuels Ohio-based clean energy projects — and those projects create local jobs. More than 500 Ohioans are employed building and operating the solar and wind installations in the CEC portfolio.

$800,000+ in Workforce Investment

Clean Energy Columbus has invested over $800,000 in clean energy workforce training programs since launch. These investments fund certifications, hands-on training, and direct pathways to employment in solar installation, electrical systems, and related clean energy fields.

Building Pathways for Columbus Residents

Training programs supported by Clean Energy Columbus include EMPOWERED! at IMPACT Community Action, ARCH's solar installation certification program, and partnerships with YouthBuild Columbus. These programs prioritize residents who face barriers to employment.

What Community Choice Aggregation Does

Community Choice Aggregation allows the City of Columbus to purchase electricity on behalf of residents and small businesses, using collective buying power to negotiate competitive rates and 100% clean energy. You remain an AEP Ohio customer for billing and delivery — CCA only changes the source and price of your electricity supply.

The Benefits for Columbus Residents

For Columbus residents: 100% clean electricity with no extra effort; rates that have beaten AEP Ohio's standard offer in 5 out of 6 contract years; price stability from a fixed annual rate; and freedom to opt out at any time with no fees. Over 220,000 Columbus customers are participating, collectively saving over $84 million since 2021.

Why It Matters for Ohio

Beyond individual savings, Clean Energy Columbus drives meaningful investment in Ohio's clean energy economy. In-state solar and wind projects create local jobs, keep economic benefits in Ohio, and build a more resilient energy supply for Columbus's future.

Why Electricity Prices Are Rising

Electricity prices across the PJM Interconnection region — which includes Ohio — are rising, primarily due to increases in capacity market costs. When those costs rise, they're passed through to customers on variable-rate plans.

How CEC's Fixed Rate Protects You

Clean Energy Columbus participants are shielded from mid-year rate volatility. The CEC supply rate is fixed at the start of each June contract year — meaning Columbus residents pay a known, stable rate regardless of what happens to AEP Ohio's variable Price to Compare during that period.

What This Means for Your Bill

If you're enrolled in CEC, your bill's Generation/Supply section will show the fixed CEC rate — predictable, month after month. If you're not yet enrolled, this is a good time to check eligibility. Call AEP Energy at 877-726-0214 or visit the enrollment page.

Preparing Your Home for Summer

As temperatures rise, so does household electricity usage. Spring is the ideal time to check your home's efficiency before the summer surge. Seal window and door gaps, check your HVAC filters, and consider a programmable thermostat to reduce cooling loads during peak hours.

Community Programs to Know About

Columbus offers several programs to help residents reduce energy costs. The City's Community Development Block Grant energy efficiency pilots and programs through IMPACT Community Action provide tools and resources for households looking to lower their bills and carbon footprint.

How to Get the Most from Your CEC Enrollment

If you're enrolled in Clean Energy Columbus, you're already receiving 100% clean electricity at a competitive fixed rate. Check your AEP Ohio bill to confirm — look for AEP Energy in the Generation/Supply section. If not yet enrolled, call 866-856-5654 to check your eligibility.

Competitive Rates That Beat the Standard

Clean Energy Columbus delivers on three fronts simultaneously: 100% clean electricity, rates that have beaten AEP Ohio's standard offer in 5 out of 6 contract years, and community investment through workforce training and neighborhood grants. For the average Columbus household, that's been $115 to $400+ in annual savings depending on the contract year.

Community Investment You Can See

The program has reinvested $500,000 in Columbus neighborhoods through a solar co-op and energy efficiency kit pilot for 200+ homes. $800,000+ has been invested in clean energy workforce training programs supporting 500+ Ohio jobs.

A More Resilient Energy Future

By choosing 100% clean energy through a program that actively invests in Ohio-based renewable projects, Columbus residents are helping build a more locally sourced, more resilient energy future — less dependent on distant fossil fuel supplies and more rooted in Ohio's growing solar and wind capacity.

Ohio's Clean Energy Projects at a Glance

Ohio-based solar and wind projects are a meaningful part of the clean energy mix that makes Columbus's 100% goal possible. Named Ohio projects include Atlanta Farms Solar (180 MW, Pickaway County), Emerson Creek Wind (83 MW, Huron and Erie Counties), and Clinton Solar (39 MW, Clinton County) — plus 10 additional undisclosed projects across six Ohio counties.

Atlanta Farms Solar: A Closer Look

Atlanta Farms Solar in Pickaway County is one of Ohio's largest solar installations at 180 MW. Located in central Ohio farm country, it exemplifies how agricultural land can host utility-scale solar while supporting rural Ohio communities.

Home Sustainability Tips for Ohio Residents

Beyond your CEC enrollment, practical steps Columbus residents can take: seal drafts around windows and doors; upgrade to ENERGY STAR®-rated appliances; use smart power strips to eliminate phantom loads; and set your water heater to 120°F. Small changes, compounded over time, make a real difference.

EMPOWERED! Program Kicks Off Its Ninth Cohort

The EMPOWERED! program — a Clean Energy Columbus workforce initiative in partnership with IMPACT Community Action — is kicking off its ninth cohort in early 2025. This hands-on training program prepares Columbus residents for careers in solar installation, electrical systems, and clean energy project work.

Program Milestones Heading Into 2025

As 2025 begins, Clean Energy Columbus has delivered over $59 million in cumulative savings to participants since launch, with more than 200,000 Columbus households and businesses enrolled. The program is now ranked #4 nationally by NREL for CCA clean power sales.

What Participants Can Expect This Year

In 2025, participants can expect the program to continue delivering a fixed, competitive supply rate, growing Ohio-based renewable capacity including the anticipated Clinton Solar Farm, and expanded community investment through workforce and neighborhood grant programs.

2024 Program Highlights

2024 was a year of continued growth for Clean Energy Columbus. The program delivered meaningful savings to over 200,000 Columbus participants, maintained its 100% clean energy supply, and expanded its Ohio-based renewable portfolio. Cumulative savings to participants crossed the $59 million mark.

Workforce and Community Investment

Clean Energy Columbus invested in Columbus's clean energy workforce throughout 2024, with over $800,000 directed to training programs including EMPOWERED! at IMPACT Community Action and ARCH's solar installation certification. More than 500 Ohioans are now employed in projects that deliver clean energy to the program.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As 2024 closes, Clean Energy Columbus looks ahead to the Clinton Solar Farm (39 MW, Clinton County) coming online in 2025, continued workforce expansion, and a new fixed rate for the Jun 2025–May 2026 term.

NREL Recognition: #4 Nationally

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has recognized Clean Energy Columbus as one of the top 10 community choice aggregation programs in the nation for clean power sales — ranking it #4 overall. This recognition reflects the scale, commitment, and effectiveness of Columbus's community energy program.

What Makes CEC Stand Out

Clean Energy Columbus stands out among CCA programs for its consistent delivery of 100% clean energy, competitive fixed rates that have beaten AEP Ohio's standard offer in most contract years, active investment in Ohio-based renewable projects, and meaningful community reinvestment through workforce training and neighborhood grants.

Building on the Momentum

With 200,000+ participants, $59M+ in cumulative savings, and a growing portfolio of Ohio-based clean energy projects, Clean Energy Columbus is building on its momentum heading into its fifth year.

Summer of Advancements

Summer 2024 was an active period for Clean Energy Columbus, with continued growth in Ohio-based renewable capacity and expanded workforce development investments. The program maintained its 100% clean energy supply through the summer peak demand period while delivering a fixed, competitive supply rate to 200,000+ Columbus participants.

Growing Ohio Renewable Capacity

Clean Energy Columbus's Ohio-based clean energy portfolio continues to grow. Atlanta Farms Solar (180 MW, Pickaway County) and Emerson Creek Wind (83 MW, Huron and Erie Counties) remain the flagship in-state projects, with additional smaller facilities across six Ohio counties.

What's Coming This Fall and Winter

As autumn arrives, Columbus residents can count on their CEC fixed rate through May 2025. The program also continues to expand workforce training partnerships heading into the winter season.

What Is a Solar Farm?

A solar farm is a large-scale photovoltaic installation designed to generate utility-scale electricity from sunlight. Unlike rooftop solar, solar farms feed electricity directly into the regional grid. Atlanta Farms Solar in Pickaway County, Ohio, is one of the state's largest at 180 MW of capacity.

Atlanta Farms Solar: Ohio's Clean Energy Anchor

Atlanta Farms Solar is a cornerstone of Clean Energy Columbus's Ohio-based clean energy portfolio. Located in central Ohio farm country, the project generates 180 MW of renewable electricity — enough to power tens of thousands of homes.

How You Benefit as a CEC Participant

As a Clean Energy Columbus participant, you benefit directly from Ohio-based projects like Atlanta Farms Solar. Your participation drives demand for Ohio-based clean energy, which supports local jobs, keeps economic benefits in Ohio, and contributes to the growing in-state renewable capacity that makes Columbus's 100% clean energy goal possible.

CCA in Plain English

Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) is a program that allows local governments to purchase electricity on behalf of their residents and businesses. Rather than each household accepting the default utility rate, the city pools everyone's demand and negotiates a competitive contract with a renewable energy supplier.

Why Columbus Chose CCA

Columbus chose CCA because it aligns with the City's carbon neutrality by 2050 goals, delivers immediate value to residents through competitive rates, creates a platform to support Ohio-based clean energy investment, and received a clear mandate from voters who approved the program in November 2020.

How to Join Clean Energy Columbus

If you're an AEP Ohio customer with a Columbus service address, you may already be enrolled. Check your bill's Generation/Supply section for AEP Energy as your supplier. To enroll or confirm eligibility, visit the AEP Energy enrollment page or call 877-726-0214. The process takes less than 5 minutes.

Jobs That Build a Cleaner Ohio

Clean Energy Columbus has invested over $800,000 in clean energy workforce training programs, supporting more than 500 Ohioans in securing jobs in solar installation, electrical systems, wind maintenance, and related clean energy fields.

The Programs Making It Happen

Key workforce programs supported by Clean Energy Columbus include EMPOWERED! at IMPACT Community Action, ARCH (providing solar PV1 certifications and direct job placement), and YouthBuild Columbus (clean energy training for young adults building careers in the trades).

How Your Enrollment Drives Local Jobs

Every Clean Energy Columbus participant helps fuel demand for Ohio-based clean energy projects — and those projects create the jobs these workforce programs train people to fill. Your enrollment is a direct link from community demand to local clean energy generation to local employment.

About the Energy Efficiency Kit Program

Clean Energy Columbus is reinvesting in Columbus neighborhoods through an energy efficiency kit pilot. Kits containing LED bulbs, smart power strips, weatherstripping, and other energy-saving tools are being distributed as part of the program's $500,000 community grant investment.

Summer Energy-Saving Tips for Columbus Residents

Summer is when household electricity usage peaks. Practical tips: set your thermostat to 78°F when home and higher when away; use ceiling fans to allow higher thermostat settings; seal window and door gaps; and run major appliances during off-peak evening hours.

How This Connects to Clean Energy Columbus

Clean Energy Columbus delivers competitive rates and 100% clean electricity to 200,000+ participants. The energy efficiency kit program extends savings further — helping residents not just save on the per-kWh rate, but use fewer kWh altogether.

How Community Choice Aggregation Works

Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) empowers local governments to act as the electricity purchaser for their community, using collective buying power to negotiate with renewable energy suppliers. You retain the right to opt out at any time with no fees or penalties.

What Clean Energy Columbus Delivers

Clean Energy Columbus delivers 100% clean electricity at a competitive fixed rate, negotiated annually by the City of Columbus and approved by City Council. Ohio-based solar and wind projects are a meaningful part of the clean energy mix. The program has saved participants over $59 million since launch.

Common Questions About CCA

Common CCA questions: Does my bill change? Only the supplier name and supply rate change. Do I need to enroll? Most eligible Columbus residents are automatically enrolled. Can I leave? Yes, at any time, at no cost. Does the electricity itself change? No — what changes is the accounting: your usage is matched with clean energy sources.

Three Years of Delivering Results

Clean Energy Columbus is closing out its third program year with strong results: over 200,000 Columbus participants receiving 100% clean electricity, cumulative savings exceeding $50 million, and a growing portfolio of Ohio-based renewable projects.

Growing Ohio Clean Energy

The program's Ohio-based clean energy portfolio includes Atlanta Farms Solar (180 MW, Pickaway County) and Emerson Creek Wind (83 MW, Huron and Erie Counties), with the Clinton Solar Farm (39 MW, Clinton County) expected online in 2025.

Investment in the Community

Spring 2024 also marks continued investment in Columbus's clean energy workforce. EMPOWERED! cohorts continue graduating residents into clean energy careers. Over $800,000 has been invested in workforce training to date, supporting 500+ Ohio clean energy jobs.

How CEC Impacts Your Rate

Clean Energy Columbus appears on your AEP Ohio bill in the Generation/Supply section, where AEP Energy is listed as your supplier at the CEC contract rate. The difference between that rate and AEP Ohio's standard Price to Compare is your per-kWh savings.

The Track Record Since 2021

Since June 2021, CEC has beaten AEP Ohio's standard rate in 5 out of 6 contract years. The Jun 2021–May 2022 term was the only exception. The Jun 2023–May 2024 contract was the most impactful, with AEP Ohio's average PTC hitting ~11.32¢/kWh versus CEC's 7.990¢, generating ~$400/year in savings for average households.

Savings in Real Terms

At 1,000 kWh/month average usage, CEC participants saved approximately $115/year in 2026–27, $154/year in 2025–26, $122/year in 2024–25, and ~$400/year in 2023–24 — adding up to a meaningful portion of the program's $70M+ in cumulative savings.

The Community Grant Program

Clean Energy Columbus's $500,000 community grant has been reinvested in Columbus neighborhoods through two initiatives: a neighborhood solar co-op that brings solar benefits to residents who can't install rooftop panels, and an energy efficiency kit pilot for 200+ Columbus homes.

Workforce Development: Building Careers in Clean Energy

The program has invested $800,000+ in clean energy workforce training, creating pathways into the industry through EMPOWERED! at IMPACT Community Action, ARCH's solar certification program, and YouthBuild Columbus. More than 500 Ohioans now work in jobs connected to the projects that deliver clean energy to the CEC program.

The Bigger Picture: A Sustainable Columbus

Every dollar of savings returned to Columbus households, every job created in Ohio's clean energy sector, and every ton of emissions avoided contributes to a more sustainable, more resilient Columbus. Clean Energy Columbus isn't just an electricity program — it's a community investment vehicle.

What Is Community Choice Aggregation?

Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) is a policy mechanism that allows local governments to purchase electricity on behalf of their communities. Rather than each household being subject to the utility's default rate, the municipality uses collective buying power to negotiate better terms with renewable energy suppliers.

How Clean Energy Columbus Uses CCA

Clean Energy Columbus uses CCA to purchase 100% clean electricity from AEP Energy on behalf of eligible Columbus residents and small businesses. The City negotiates a fixed annual supply rate — approved by Columbus City Council — that is then offered to all eligible AEP Ohio customers in Columbus.

The Benefits for Columbus Residents and Businesses

Benefits for Columbus residents: 100% clean electricity with no extra effort; rates that have beaten AEP Ohio's standard offer in most contract years; price stability from a fixed annual supply rate; community investment through workforce training and neighborhood grants; and freedom to opt out at any time with no fees.

Record Savings in 2023

Clean Energy Columbus is ending 2023 with its strongest performance since launch. In the Jun 2023–May 2024 contract year, the CEC supply rate was 7.990¢/kWh while AEP Ohio's average Price to Compare reached approximately 11.32¢/kWh — a spread of over 3¢/kWh. For a household using 1,000 kWh/month, that translates to approximately $400 in annual savings — the largest per-household benefit in any CEC contract year.

Why 2023 Was So Impactful

The 2023 savings reflect exceptional conditions: energy market volatility drove AEP Ohio's standard rate significantly higher, while Clean Energy Columbus's fixed, pre-negotiated rate held steady. This is precisely the protection CCA is designed to provide — price stability in volatile markets, secured through community buying power.

Looking Ahead to 2024

Looking ahead to 2024, Clean Energy Columbus will continue to deliver a competitive fixed rate, grow its Ohio-based clean energy portfolio, and expand workforce and community investments. The program remains committed to the same mission that drove Columbus voters to approve it in 2020.