In 2008, Ohio signed a bill into law (S.B. 221) concerning advanced energy and energy efficiency provisions in the state. Reducing the amount of energy used by everyone in the state can slow the need for building new generation stations. This can help to reduce the long-term cost in generating electricity by using the resources currently in place for as long as the state can. If new generation stations are built, the companies pass the cost of construction on to consumers raising rates for electricity. Along with other items, the S.B. 221 mandates the increased use of alternative energy resources such as solar or renewable energy along with implementing programs to reduce energy consumption by consumers.


The  efficiency programs, as called in S.B. 221, encourage the use of energy efficient appliances, light bulbs, and other household items. First Energy, Corp. is giving away “Free” CFL light bulbs to customers in Ohio. Free is in quotation marks because residential consumers are really paying for the CFL light bulbs in additional monthly electricity delivery charges over the next 3 years.

Ordering “Free” CFLs from First Energy, Corp.

Step 1: Review your bill from First Energy, Corp. to determine if you are eligible. You should receive your bill from Ohio Edison, The Illuminating Company or Toledo Edison–all are First Energy’s Ohio utilities.

Step 2: Locate your account number on your electric bill.

Step 3: Call 1-888-846-2235 to order your CFLs from First Energy, Corp.

Step 4: Provide required information to the customer service representative to place the order for your CFLs. You will need your account number, name on the account, and mailing address.

Step 5: Wait for the CFLs to arrive in the mail.

Step 6: Install the CFLs.

First Energy, Corp. will provide customers with 6 “sample” light bulbs to use in their home. The CFLs provided are 23 watt white light CFLs designed to replace 100 watt incandescent bulbs. The bulbs use 75% less energy and are expected to last 10,000 hours lighted reducing the amount of times consumers need to replace the bulbs.

If you are a customer of First Energy, Corp. and you live in Ohio, you need to claim the CFLs. You are paying for them through the company’s efficiency program even if you don’t claim them. You can also purchase CFLs at local stores where the cost has been reduced to $0.50 for each CFL. Participating Retail Locations include The Andersons (Maumee, Sylvania, Northwood, and Toledo), Marc’s (all locations in Northern Ohio), Goodwill (Alliance, Eastlake, Cleveland, Fulton, Hartville, Middleburg Heights, and North Olmsted), Discount DrugMart (of Northern Ohio), and Dollar Tree (of Northern Ohio).

Do you have any suggestions on reducing energy consumption? What have you implemented in your own home to help reduce your bill? Feel free to provide comments or suggestions below.