Proposed Natural Gas Aggregation -Village of Galena- November 5, 2024 Ballot

The Village of Galena has chosen to add Natural Gas Aggregation to the ballot come November 5th, 2024. Below are some common questions about energy aggregation.

What is Natural Gas Aggregation?

-           Aggregation is an option available under Ohio law for consumers to obtain competitive gas supply. Local governments may aggregate the energy used by their residents and arrange for the purchase of natural gas. Purchasing large blocks of energy gives bargaining power and may reduce costs of energy supply.

What does by it mean to Opt-Out Aggregation?

-          An Opt-Out Aggregation is a program that results in residents being automatically enrolled in the aggregation unless they individually opt-out of the program. If an individual is currently in their own supply agreement, their current agreement won’t be affected by an aggregation program. Businesses or residential can join the program at no fees. Any business and residence can leave the program with no fees. They can join the program later with no fees. Complete choice program.  

What fees will individuals see?

-          There will be no fees applied. This natural gas aggregation is a choice program which gives the people of Galena an option to be a part of or not. If an individual wants to join in later or leave the program later, no fees will be applied. Complete choice!

Will my bill still be Columbia Gas?

-          Yes! Columbia Gas utility oversees providing you with natural gas. Columbia Gas currently charges you with delivery of natural gas and supply of natural gas. Columbia Gas will continue to provide your natural gas bill but with a different supply cost. No change in billing will be affected.

Why did the Village of Galena choose to add Natural Gas Aggregation?

-          Natural gas rates have been very volatile for the last couple of years. Prices have jumped a considerable amount due to energy markets and the national issues. This is giving the people of Galena an option of energy supply at no fees to take advantage of.