Ohio regulators have hit FirstEnergy, the Akron-based utility company, with more than $250 million in fines and refunds due to its role in a major bribery scandal tied to state politics. The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) made the decision on Wednesday, marking another step in addressing the fallout from a scheme that first came to light over five years ago.
The penalties include about $187 million that must be paid back to customers. On top of that, the company faces nearly $180 million in fines because it misused fees that were supposed to fund upgrades to the state’s power grid. PUCO Chair Jenifer French said the commission acted firmly and based on facts, hoping this serves as a strong reminder about honesty and accountability in utility oversight.
This scandal centers around a $60 million bribery plan linked to then-Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder. Prosecutors said FirstEnergy funneled money to lawmakers to secure a $1 billion bailout that kept two nuclear plants open. Householder and several associates were arrested back in 2020, and he was convicted and sentenced to 20 years in prison last year. Another key figure, lobbyist Matt Borges, also served time but was released recently to a halfway house.
FirstEnergy admitted it paid bribes and used dark money to influence the effort. To avoid criminal charges, the company agreed to pay $230 million and pledged to make changes. It has since fired several executives tied to the scandal, including former CEO Chuck Jones and Senior Vice President Michael Dowling, who now face indictments but have pleaded not guilty.
While FirstEnergy has worked to improve its ethics and compliance, commissioners stressed the company must still face consequences. Commissioner Dennis Deters described the bribery as casting a shadow over regulatory responsibilities and harming consumers. Commissioner John Williams expressed disappointment and hopes the fines deter similar misconduct in the future.
Consumer and environmental groups welcomed the fines. Karin Nordstrom of the Ohio Environmental Council emphasized that corruption won’t be tolerated and noted Ohioans have struggled with rising electric bills. Ohio Consumers’ Counsel Maureen Willis called the ruling an important step, saying customers should never have to pay for the company’s illegal actions.
The PUCO’s order closes three investigations that had been put on hold during the Justice Department’s probe. The commission’s message is clear: FirstEnergy must be held accountable and work to regain the public’s trust.