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Pocket Guide and FAQs

The Northeast Ohio Public Energy Council (NOPEC) is a non-profit natural gas and electric energy aggregation representing about 550,000 residential and small business customers in over 200 communities in 13 Northeast Ohio counties. NOPEC was founded in 2000. NOPEC operates as a governmental opt-out aggregation. We use bulk-buying techniques to get competitively priced energy and then supply that power in the form of electricity and natural gas to our customers. We estimate that since we were founded, we have saved our customers in Northeast Ohio over a quarter billion dollars in cumulative electric savings. We are also increasingly involved in encouraging and implementing energy conservation that saves our customers additional money.

CONTENTS

General NOPEC FAQs...........................2 Electric Program FAQs..........................6 Electric Opt-out FAQs............................8 Understanding Electricity Offers........ 10 Natural Gas Program FAQs................ 14 Natural Gas Opt-out FAQs................. 17 Understanding Natural Gas Offers.... 20 Glossary............................................... 26 Contacts.............................................. 28 Customer Service............................... 29

N O PEC FAQ s

What is Northeast Ohio Public Energy Council (NOPEC)? The Northeast Ohio Public Energy Council (NOPEC) is a nonprofit natural gas and electric energy aggregation representing about 830,000 residential and small business customers in over 200 communities in 13 Northeast Ohio counties. NOPEC was founded in 2000. NOPEC operates as a governmental opt-out aggregation. We use bulk-buying techniques to get competitively priced energy and then supply that power in the form of electricity and natural gas to our customers. We estimate that since we were founded, we have saved our customers in Northeast Ohio over a quarter billion dollars in cumulative electric savings. We are also increasingly involved in encouraging and implementing energy conservation that saves our customers additional money.

What is the value in NOPEC for me? The theory behind public aggregation is simple: By using bulk purchasing power, savings can be passed on to individual consumers. By joining together, consumers in NOPEC communities gain the ability to utilize a team of experienced professionals to negotiate for better prices and protections. NOPEC ensures that communities have a voice in determining that future market changes benefit consumers. Large groups of communities such as NOPEC enjoy substantial leverage in making these determinations. Without an organization like NOPEC, consumers would be left to decide on their own which supplier to choose, and would be at the mercy of the supplier.

Who is in charge of this group? Ultimately, the consumers themselves, through the views they express to their local elected officials. NOPEC is governed by a General Assembly, made up of one representative from each community. From this group, a Board of Directors is elected, with one representative from each of the counties in the NOPEC service area. In addition, the General Assembly elects a chairman and vice chairman.

What does all this cost? NOPEC receives no public funds, and its member communities are not charged any dues or fees. The chairman and members of the Board of Directors serve without compensation. NOPEC’s administrative expenses, such as the cost of the opt-out mailings, staffing and expenses are paid by fees from the energy supplier. The supplier’s price includes a fee for administrative services provided by NOPEC. NOPEC’s budget is public and is approved once a year by the NOPEC General Assembly members.

How do I join NOPEC? If you live in a NOPEC community, you are automatically included, unless you choose not to be. Ohio has what is called an “opt-out” procedure. This means that all eligible customers of an aggregated community become part of the buying group unless they take specific action to opt-out of the aggregation. Opt-out notices are sent to every eligible natural gas consumer every two years. Under Ohio law (SB221) electricity customers may receive an opt-out notice every three years.

What is the difference between NOPEC and other energy suppliers? Unlike the many private, for-profit companies now marketing in Ohio, NOPEC is a public aggregation of local governments, with no goal other than delivering both savings and stability to the consumers it represents. To that end, we are concerned with a long-term approach to the energy market as well as shortterm savings. NOPEC recognizes that long-term savings for consumers will result from regulatory changes and new laws that must be passed, and is dedicated to representing the interests of its consumers in seeking those changes. NOPEC is a not for profit governmental aggregation which negotiates favorable rates and terms with its selected private energy suppliers. Private, for profit, energy suppliers that make offers without the benefit of group negotiations are more focused on short-term offers. Their positions on regulatory changes and laws are often aimed at their own bottom lines rather than the interests of consumers. NOPEC advocates for regulatory changes and laws that promote the interest of NOPEC members and consumers.

How can I compare NOPEC to offers from other energy suppliers? One of the hallmarks of energy deregulation is that each consumer is free to make his or her own decisions, and all the factors involved should be carefully weighed. The difference in purpose between NOPEC and private suppliers is certainly one of those factors. In terms of pricing, consumers should be wary of gimmicks and “loss leader” giveaways, in which shortterm savings are promised, with no long-range guarantees of continued savings. Customers can view gas and electric pricing for NOPEC and compare rates at nopecinfo.org.

N O PEC FAQ s

So how is NOPEC funded? Isn’t your fee just baked into what we pay? NOPEC’s operations are not funded by consumers or the government. We’re actually funded by the energy suppliers we buy from that pay a fee to NOPEC for the administrative services provided. Here’s how that works: as an energy aggregator, we arrange for the supply of electricity generation and natural gas commodity to our hundreds of thousands of customers from one retail electric company and one retail natural gas company. Energy providers bid for supply contracts with us, and when we sit down with them to negotiate, we leverage our remarkable bargaining power to make a deal that gives our customers the very best pricing, terms and conditions, and programming then available in the market. The energy companies that work with us save quite a lot of money, too. They don’t have to worry about attracting, signing, or retaining customers—all of which eats into their profits when they market to individual consumers. In exchange for cutting out these costly processes, they offer our customers better terms and conditions and a wider array of products, and they give us a small administrative fee. Because our energy providers are still dollars ahead, you get savings “baked in” right from the start. And you get access to industry-leading terms and conditions, protections, and educational programming. You also have the power to lend your voice to millions of others so legislators and regulators remember how the decisions they make impact the people they represent.

Explain NOPEC’s procedure for selecting a supplier for an aggregation program. NOPEC routinely completes a request for proposal (RFP) for our natural gas and electric supply, so we have already qualified the best in class energy provider. Our RFP process is a stringent process that requires potential suppliers to comply with our financial, legal and insurance standards: the highest standards in the business.

What would be the tasks that the community would have to perform during the term of the agreement? None. NOPECâ€™s energy provider is responsible for opt-out mailers and provides 24/7 call center support. NOPEC will provide all the legal documents and file all the necessary paper work with the PUCO as part of your membership. No need of additional licenses.

Will refresh mailings be conducted? If so, what will be the frequency? NOPEC and our energy suppliers currently do refresher supplemental mailers every six to eight weeks.

What are the rates and terms for new customers entering the program? New customers receive current program pricing.

Does NOPEC have a website that lists the gas and electric prices for the community each month and compares the price to other offers? NOPEC launched new pricing pages in March 2016. Consumers can review all our product offerings and compare rates at nopecinfo.org.

EL ECT R I C PR O G R A M FAQ S

Who will deliver my electricity once I choose a new supplier? If you choose a new supplier, your local electric utility will continue to deliver the electric to your home or business. Your local utility will also continue to maintain and repair the poles and wires. You should continue to call your local electric utility if your power goes out. The PUCO will oversee the safety and reliability of the service provided by your electric utility.

I am currently with another supplier but would like to join the NOPEC electricity program. What are my options? You should check with your current supplier to determine any early termination fees that may be a part of your contract with them. If you decide to leave before the end date of your contract you may be subject to those fees. Call the NOPEC customer care line at 855.667.3201 (855-NOPEC01) to enroll.

My neighbor works for the local utility company. Will my communities’ aggregation program cause him to lose his job? No. Governmental Aggregation programs such as NOPEC’s have no impact on the local utility or its employees. In fact, there are employees of the utilities that are active members of the aggregation program.

If I join NOPEC’s electricity aggregation program, who will deliver my power, read my meter, send my bill and respond to emergencies, such as power outages? Your local electric utility will be responsible for the delivery of electricity to your home or business. Since your electric utility owns the wires and poles that deliver power to you, it will continue to read your meter, send your bill and restore power after an outage.

Are there any cancellation fees for the electricity aggregation program? No. There is no cancellation fee and no early termination fee.

Can I remain on budget billing? Call our customer care line at 855.667.3201 to enroll in budget billing.

Who is NextEra Energy Services Ohio, LLC? NextEra Energy Services Ohio, LLC (NESO) is the new electric supplier that NOPEC has chosen to serve our customers starting with the January 2017 meter read. NESO has successfully served NOPEC’s natural gas customers with Ohio-sourced natural gas and low-cost service since April of 2014. Plus, NESO has been the electric supplier to NOPEC communities in the American Electric Power territory since August 2015. NESO’s parent company, NextEra Energy, Inc., is a financially strong, leading clean-energy company that is first-in-class among energy suppliers. It has been named No. 1 in the electric and gas utilities industry on Fortune’s 2017 list of the “World’s Most Admired Companies.” In fact, this is the 10th time in the past 11 years that NextEra Energy, Inc. has received this honor.

What is NOPEC’s program price? Under the NOPEC-NESO retail electric aggregation supply agreement, customers will receive a program price of competitive rates based on favorable wholesale purchase prices available in the market. Go to nopecinfo.org to view the current program price. Electric prices will be listed on nopecinfo.org 30 days in advance.

Is there a variable rate option? NOPEC electricity customers in The Illuminating Company’s and Ohio Edison’s territory have the option to choose a variable rate of 6% off the utility’s Price to Compare (PTC) for residential customers and 4% off the PTC for small commercial customers. This variable rate option is available for up to 7,000 NOPEC Customers in The Illuminating Company’s territory and 3,000 NOPEC customers in Ohio Edison (OE) territory. To enroll in the variable rate option, call the NOPEC customer care line at 855.667.3201 (855-NOPEC01).

E L E C T R I C O P T- O U T FA Q s

Is there a green energy product? The electricity supplied by NESO to the NOPEC electric aggregation in 2017 will contain 50% renewable energy credits (REC). In addition to complying with Ohio’s 3.5% Renewable Portfolio Standard, NESO will supply 46.5% REC content at no additional cost to NOPEC customers through the inclusion of NextEra Energy’s EarthEra REC program. EarthEra RECs are created by wind and solar energy projects from NextEra facilities. All revenues from NOPEC’s EarthEra REC purchases will be used for the construction of new renewable energy projects. Again, the 2017 supplementary REC content provided by NESO is at no additional cost to NOPEC customers.

What are these opt-out letters that NOPEC is sending out? NOPEC is required — every three years — to give our members the chance to “opt-out” of NOPEC — in other words, it’s your chance to leave NOPEC and/or choose another electric supplier, or return to the Price to Compare offering with The Illuminating Company, Ohio Edison (OE) or American Electric Power (AEP) if you want. If you would like to continue to be served by NOPEC, there is no action required from you at the moment, you don’t have to fill out or return anything. But we are required to give NOPEC customers the chance — every three years — to opt-out of our electricity program.

The opt-out letter is confusing — what is the point? We don’t want our customers to be confused. The letter covers a lot of ground, a lot of topics, and some of those topics are a bit technical due to the rules we must follow. NOPEC understands the energy industry and has the knowledge and the determination to pursue lower rates for our region. It helps make Northeast Ohio more affordable. We hope that you will stay with NOPEC to enjoy the savings.

Why do you need to send these out every three years? We’re required to send these notices out every three years by the PUCO.

What if I did not receive an opt-out notice? There are several reasons why some customers may not have received an opt-out notice: 1. Customers may be under contract with another supplier and are not eligible. 2. Customers may have been inadvertently excluded from the database acquired from the utility. 3. C ustomers may have been excluded due to having an ineligible rate-code on their account. 4. Customers may have previously signed a notice from the utility that prohibits them from releasing a customer’s information to independent suppliers. 5. C ustomers also may be ineligible because they are on Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) or are not current in a payment plan with the utility. Customers who did not receive a notice and want to join the program should call NOPEC’s customer care line at 855.667.3201 (855-NOPEC01).

Why do I have to pay for the stamp on the opt-out card? NOPEC is a non-profit entity. We give all of our customers an opportunity to opt-out of NOPEC, but we don’t pay the postage to opt-out of our program.

Why can’t this be done online? Unfortunately, we need a signature of the person who is electing to opt-out. That’s why it has to be done on paper, and then mail or fax the opt-out form. To opt-out by fax, send your name, address, phone number and utility account number to 800.238.5676.

What if I change my mind and decide not to have NOPEC supply my electricity? All consumers who do not opt-out are enrolled for a period of up to three years, after which they will be given another opportunity to opt-out. However, there is no cancellation or early termination fee.

How do I permanently get removed from the electric opt-out mailing list? For electricity, you can file with the PUCO to be on the “Do Not Aggregate” list.

U N D E R S TA N D I N G E L E C T R I C I T Y O F F E R S

Mail offers from electric companies can be confusing. Follow these tips to make informed choices when choosing your electricity supplier.

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1. Know who you are doing business with.

• Is this a governmental aggregator or a company with local roots?

• How long have they been doing business in Northeast Ohio?

• Does the company have a good reputation?

• Is the company’s offer sponsored by a non-profit organization like NOPEC or only by a for profit entity?

• What is the rate?

• How long is the rate good for?

• What happens after the “Special Offer” period?

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3. Are there hidden terms and conditions?

• Read the fine print to find out the terms and conditions.

• How do you need to enroll to qualify for the offer? Online, by phone?

• Is there an early termination fee?

4. Is this offer really the best? Don’t take their word for it. Compare this offer to similar offers in the market to make an informed choice. Be sure to compare contract lengths as well as rates.

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your power from Electric Company, you take charge of your energy supply with a supplier Residential Customer Satisfaction.”† For over 25 years we’ve been purchasing energy ou, and delivering it directly to the utility who continues to provide expert distribution, services. Friday, May 20, 2016 to secure this rate for the year. If you have any questions, please s Center at 1.800.555.1234 or visit us online.

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Watch out for high early termination fees!

U N D E R S TA N D I N G E L E C T R I C I T Y O F F E R S

Bill Based On: Actual Meter Reading Billing Period: Bill For:

April 2, 2016 Account Number: 123

Mar 1 to Mar 30, 2016 for 30 days JOHN Q. CUSTOMER 123 ANY STREET CLEVELAND, OH 00000-0000

Amount Due: $190.04

Due Date: April 16, 20

To report an emergency or outage, call 24 hours a day 1-800-000-0000. For Customer Service, call 1-888-000-0000. For 1-800-0000. Pay your bill online at www.firstenergycorp.com Account Summary

Messages

To avoid a Late Payment Charge being added to your bill, please pay the Amount Due by the Due Date. Your current PRICE TO COMPARE for generation and transmission from The Illuminating Company is listed below. For you to save, a supplier’s price must be lower. To obtain an “Apples to Apples” comparison of available competitive electric supplier offers, visit the PUCO web site at www.PUCO.ohio.gov. Residential Service - 1770100197 - 7.35 cents per KWH

Usage History

2,758 2,159 2,082 1,746 1,453 678

Jan 16 Feb 16 Mar 16 Apr 16 May 16 Jun 16 Jul 16

3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Usage Information for Meter Number 00

Mar 30, 2014 KWH Reading (Actual) Mar 01, 2014 KWH Reading (Actual) KWH used

Additional messages, if any, can be found on back. Jul 15 Aug 15 Sep 15 Oct 15 Nov 15 Dec 15

Previous Balance Payments/Adjustments Balance at Billing on April 2, 2016 The Illuminating Company ELECTRIC SUPPLIER – NOPEC-NextEra – CONSUMPTION Total Current Charges Amount Due by April 16, 2016

Charges From The Illuminating Com

Customer Number: 0000000000 0000000000 1,774 Rate: Residential Service CE-RSD 1,199 Customer Charge 1,052 Distribution Related Component 1,503 Cost Recover Charges 821 Current Consumption Bill Charges 1,347 1,482 Charges from NOPEC-NextEra Energy Servi 341 White Pond Drive Bldg B3, Akron, Customer Service 1-888-254-9 Account Number: 00000000 Rate: FESNP-G940 Basic Charge: 1.482 KWH x 0.069069 per KWH Total NOPEC-NextEra Charges

Detail Payment and Adjustment Inform

E A A E E A E A A E A A E J A S O N D J F M A M J J A-Actual E-Estimate C-Customer N-No Usage

Comparisons Average Daily Use (KWH) Average Daily Temperature Days in Billing Period Last 12 Months Use (KWH) Average Monthly Use (KWH)

Last Year This Year 89 46 74 71 31 32 17,296 1,441

03/16/2016 Payment

Account Balances by Company

The Illuminating Company NOPEC-NextEra Total

Previous Payments/ Balance Adjustments 79.15 -79.15

80.57 -80.57 159.72 -159.72

Rates shown are for illustration purposes only. The Illuminating Company NOPEC-NEXTERA – CONSUMPTION Total Current Charges Amount Due by April 16, 2016

87.68 108.36 190.04 $190.04

The Illuminating Company FE/OHIO EDISON/ILLUMINATING COMPANY – CONSUMPTION Total Current Charges Amount Due by April 16, 2016

87.68 114.93 202.61 $202.61

The Illuminating Company ABC ELECTRIC SUPPLIER Total Current Charges Amount Due by April 16, 2016

87.68 122.93 210.61 $210.61

Page 1 of 2

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Types of Supply Charge Offers Aggregation Program Rate (i.e. NOPEC) An aggregation program brings citizens and small businesses together to gain group buying power for the purchase of competitively priced electric from a retail electric supplier certified by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO).

The Price to Compare The Price to Compare is calculated by your utility company by taking the amount of your Bypassable Generation and Transmission Related Component and dividing it by the total number of kilowatt-hours used for the month. An alternative supplierâ€™s price for generation and transmission must be lower than your utilityâ€™s price to compare for you to save money with that supplier.

Retail Supply An energy supplier of your choice that is not part of an aggregation program. 13

N AT U R A L G A S P R O G R A M FA Q s

I am currently with another supplier but would like to join the NOPEC natural gas program. What are my options? You should check with your current supplier to determine any early termination fees that may be a part of your contract with them. If you decide to leave before the end date of your contract, you may be subject to those fees. Call the NOPEC natural gas customer care line at 855.667.3201 to enroll.

If I join NOPECâ€™s natural gas aggregation program, who will deliver my natural gas, read my meter, send my bill and respond to emergencies? Your local natural gas utility will be responsible for the delivery of natural gas to your home or business. Since your natural gas utility owns the pipes they continue to read your meter usage and send your bill. You should continue to call your local electric utility if your power goes out. The PUCO will still oversee the safety and reliability of the service provided by your natural gas utility.

What if I choose to participate and allow NOPEC/ NextEra Energy Services Ohio, LLC to become my supplier and later decide to switch back to my utility before the two years are over, is there a penalty involved? No. You may terminate the agreement any time without penalty. You will have to pay for the natural gas supplied by us until the date of the switch.

Can I remain on budget billing? Budget billing is not available for the NOPEC/NextEra Natural Gas Program.

How will I be billed? You will still receive one bill from your utility. On the bill there will be a line item for NOPEC/NextEra Energy Services Ohio, LLC.

Are there any monthly fees I should be aware of? No, there are no additional fees from NOPEC/NextEra Energy Services Ohio, LLC aside from your gas supply charge. You will have separate charges for the delivery services performed by the utility.

Who is Dominion East Ohio? Dominion East Ohio (DEO) is one of the companies that may own the natural gas pipes and meters that serve your home. The natural gas industry in your area has deregulated, which allows customers to choose which company will supply your gas that’s delivered through DEO’s pipes.

Who is Columbia Gas of Ohio? Columbia Gas of Ohio (COH) is one of the companies that may own the natural gas pipes and meters that serve your home. The natural gas industry in your area has deregulated, which allows customers to choose which company will supply your gas that’s delivered through COH’s pipes.

Who is NextEra Energy Services Ohio, LLC? NextEra Energy Services Ohio, LLC (NESO) is a dynamic retail natural gas supplier serving Ohio. As a subsidiary of NextEra Energy, Inc., a Fortune 200 company, NextEra Energy Services Ohio, LLC is part of a trusted group of companies with over 80 years of excellence, exceptional credit ratings, and financial stability.

What is NOPEC’s relationship with NextEra Energy Services Ohio, LLC? In September 2013, NOPEC entered into an agreement to buy Natural Gas for NOPEC customers from NextEra Energy Services Ohio, LLC. That agreement continues through early 2020.

What is Energy Choice? Allowing customers to purchase natural gas from a supplier other than the utility that delivers the natural gas has created competition by allowing many companies the right to sell natural gas.

How does gas aggregation/customer choice/ deregulation work? It simply means that YOU have a choice of who supplies your natural gas.

N AT U R A L G A S P R O G R A M FA Q s

Can you tell me what other communities are participating in NOPEC’s Natural Gas Aggregation Program? NOPEC currently serves over 200 communities in 13 counties in Northeast Ohio. For a list of communities, you may visit NOPEC’s website at nopecinfo.org.

Do I have to choose NOPEC as my natural gas supplier? No, but NOPEC went through a competitive process to choose the supplier of natural gas that offers the best value for all NOPEC customers, including you. That supplier is NextEra Energy Services Ohio, LLC.

Will my service be interrupted when I switch suppliers? No, your gas service will not be interrupted.

Do you offer variable rates? How much are the variable rates? How can I select the monthly variable price option? Under our monthly variable price option, you will receive a market variable price that will change each month based on the monthly settled gas price. This price will be $0.02/Mcf less than the monthly Utility Standard Choice Offer price. Enrollment under this option is limited and subject to availability. You must affirmatively enroll in the variable price option by calling 855.667.3201.

Does NOPEC require selected gas suppliers to have a “buy Ohio gas” procurement commitment in a particular percentage to encourage Ohio economic development? Our current natural gas contract with NextEra Energy Services Ohio, LLC specifies using 70% Ohio shale natural gas resources. We believe in using our buying power to strengthen the Ohio economy.

N AT U R A L G A S O P T- O U T FA Q s

What are these opt-out letters that NOPEC is sending out? NOPEC is required — every two years — to give our members the chance to “opt-out” of NOPEC — in other words, it’s your chance to leave NOPEC and/or choose another gas supplier, or return to the Standard Choice offering with Columbia Gas of Ohio (COH) or Dominion East Ohio (DEO), if you want. If you would like to continue to be served by NOPEC, there is no action required from you at the moment. You don’t have to fill out or return anything. But we are required to give NOPEC customers the chance — every two years — to opt-out of our natural gas program.

The opt-out letter is confusing. What is the point? We don’t want our customers to be confused. The letter covers a lot of ground, a lot of topics, and some of those topics are a bit technical due to the rules we must follow. NOPEC understands the energy industry and has the knowledge and the determination to pursue lower rates for our region. It helps make Northeast Ohio more affordable. We hope that you will stay with NOPEC to enjoy the savings.

What if I did not receive an opt-out notice? There are several reasons why some customers may not have received an opt-out notice: 1. Customers may be under contract with another supplier and are not eligible. 2. Customers may have been inadvertently excluded from the database acquired from the utility. 3. C ustomers may have been excluded due to having an ineligible rate-code on their account. 4. Customers may have previously signed a notice from the utility that prohibits them from releasing a customer’s information to independent suppliers. 5. C ustomers also may be ineligible because they are on Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) or are not current in a payment plan with the utility. Customers who did not receive a notice and want to join the program should call the NOPEC natural gas customer care line at 855.667.3201.

N AT U R A L G A S O P T- O U T FA Q s

What happens if I opt-out? If you choose to opt-out, you can select another natural gas supplier or default back to the utility for your natural gas supply.

How do I opt-out? If you do not want to participate in NOPEC’s natural gas program, you must do one of the following: Sign, date and return the opt-out reply card. Or Fax us your name, address, phone number and utility account number to 800.238.5676.

Why can’t this be done online? Unfortunately, we need a signature of the person who is electing to opt-out. That’s why it has to be done on paper, and then mail or fax the opt-out form.

If someone opted out two years ago, do they have to opt-out again? By law if the customer opted out two years ago, did not choose an alternative supplier and remained with the Standard Choice Offer, they have to opt-out again.

Why do you need to send these out every two years? We’re required to send these notices out every two years by the PUCO.

If I am currently in the variable price option will I automatically be re-enrolled in the same product? No. You will be enrolled in the traditional opt-out product which is the Program Price. You must re-enroll in the variable pricing option by calling the NOPEC customer care line at 855.667.3201.

What if I change my mind and decide not to have NOPEC supply my natural gas? All consumers who do not opt-out are enrolled for a period of up to two years after which they will be given another opportunity to opt-out. Consumers who wish to leave before the end of the gas program may do so without charge.

How do I permanently get removed from the natural gas opt-out mailing list? Call customer service at NextEra Energy Service Ohio, LLC at 1.855.667.3201.

U N D E R S TA N D I N G N AT U R A L G A S O F F E R S

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Mail or phone offers from gas companies can be confusing. Follow these tips to make informed choices when choosing your natural gas supplier.

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1. Know who you are doing business with.

• Is this a governmental aggregator or company with local roots?

• How long have they been doing business in Northeast Ohio?

• Does the company have a good reputation?

• Is the company’s offer sponsored by a non-profit organization like NOPEC or only by a for profit entity?

2. Beware of misleading offers.

• What is the rate?

• How long is the rate good for?

• What happens after the “Special Offer” period?

• What is the length of the contract? Does the contract automatically renew?

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• How long do you need to be a customer until you get the reward?

• Is there an early termination fee? And how much is it?

4. Is this offer really the best? Don’t take their word for it. Compare this offer to similar offers in the market to make an informed choice. Be sure to compare contract lengths, the renewal process, early termination fees and rates. 20

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Go to nopecinfo.org to compare offers and check rates.

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Comparing your Dominion East Ohio Bill to Other Mail Offers

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Current Charges

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Supply Charges Look here to find the price per Mcf that you are currently paying for your natural gas supply.

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Types of Supply Charge Offers Rates shown are for illustration purposes only. Nopec - NextEra Energy Services Charges Gas Cost 10.0 MCF @ $1.833 $18.33 Sales Tax 1.19 Total NOPEC - NEXTERA ENERGY SERVICES OHIO, LLC $19.52 For questions about gas supply costs, contact NOPEC - NEXTERA ENERGY SERVICES at 855-667-3201 or 20455 State Hwy 249 Suite 200, Houston, TX 77070 855-nopec01 or www.nexteraenergyservices.com.

ABC Gas Supply Charges Standard Choice Offer (SCO) Gas Cost 10.0 MCF @ $1.853 $18.53 Sales Tax 1.20 Total ABC Gas Supply Charges $19.73 For questions about gas supply costs, contact ABC Gas Supply at 1-800-XXX-XXXX.

ABC Gas Supply Charges Standard Service Offer (SSO) Gas Cost 10.0 MCF @ $1.853 $18.53 Sales Tax 1.20 Total ABC Gas Supply Charges $19.73 For questions about gas supply costs, contact ABC Gas Supply at 1-800-XXX-XXXX.

ABC Gas Supply Charges (See last page for important message) Monthly Variable Rate (MVR) Gas Cost 10.0 MCF @ $2.945 $29.45 Sales Tax 1.91 Total ABC Gas Supply Charges $31.36 For questions about gas supply costs, contact ABC Gas Supply at 1-800-XXX-XXXX.

LIC REET 44139

er 00

Page 1

Date Prepared November 26

Next Meter Reading 12/27 – 01/02

For questions about Dominion East Ohio charges call 1-800-362-7557.

arges Since Your Last Bill

Last Bill $00.00 $00.00

Monthly Usage Comparison

Average Daily Temperature For This Billing Period

t Ohio Distribution Charges Charge $00.00 Charges @ $00.00 0.00 s Tax (0.00%) 0.00 n East Ohio Charges $00.00

21 14 7

out Dominion East Ohio charges, call 1-800-362-7557.

Era Energy Services Ohio, LLC Charges MCF @ $00.00

$00.00 0.00 - NEXTERA ENERGY SERVICES OHIO, LLC $00.00

out gas supply costs, contact NOPEC - NEXTERA ENERGY O, LLC at 855-667-3201 or 20455 State Hwy 249 Suite 200, 70 855-nopec01 or www.nexteraenergyservices.com.

Charges $00.00 Balance $00.00

Previous Year Current Year 00F 00F

Gas Use in MCF

Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov

Average monthly use: Total annual use:

0.00 MCF. 0.00 MCF.

Billing Period and Meter Readings

Date Read Type Reading Meter Number 00000000 Nov 26 Actual 000.0 Oct 28 Actual 000.0 MCF Used in 29 Days

Difference 000.0 000.0

Need to Locate an Authorized Payment Center?

www.dom.com and type “Payment Center” in the search box.

GYSHARE: Help people without heat by donating to EnergyShare. To donate, add exactly $1, $2, $6, $12, $18, or $36 payment or mail a separate check payable to EnergyShare, Salvation Army, P.O. Box 5847, Cleveland, OH 44101.

d return this coupon with a check made payable to Dominion East Ohio. Please see reverse side for mailing address change instructions.

Indicates where you will find out if you are a NOPEC member.

Aggregation Program Rate (i.e. NOPEC) An aggregation program brings citizens and small businesses together to gain group buying power for the purchase of competitively priced natural gas from a retail natural gas supplier certified by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO).

Standard Choice Offer (SCO) The SCO is a regulated price available to all consumers. It is set by the competitive auction overseen by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio and is based on the market price of natural gas. The SCO usually adjusts on a monthly basis.

Standard Service Offer (SSO) When changing plans, the Standard Service Offer (SSO) rate may be charged for up to two months while arrangements are made for gas supply through the new plan. The SSO uses the same rate as the SCO.

Monthly Variable Rate (MVR) The Monthly Variable Rate (MVR) is an unregulated rate that former aggregation customers may be charged if they do not select a retail supplier or aggregation program. Customers on the MVR purchase their natural gas from an assigned MVR retail supplier. 23

U N D E R S TA N D I N G N AT U R A L G A S O F F E R S

Account Number: 123456 Statement Date

Helpful Definitions Ccf is equal to 100 cubic feet and is used to measure your gas usage. Estimated Readings are calculated based on your typical monthly usage rather than on an actual meter reading. Fixed Monthly Delivery Charge covers a portion of the fixed costs required to ensure that natural gas service is available to your home. This amount is the same with each bill. Usage Based Charges are basic charges for natural gas supply services to retail customers, excluding natural gas distribution services.

Legal Information Public Utilities Commission of Ohio If your complaint is not resolved after you have called Columbia Gas of Ohio, or for general utility information, residential and business customers may contact the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) for assistance at 1-800-686-7826 (toll free) from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, or at http://www.puco.ohio.gov. Hearing or speech impaired customers may contact the PUCO via 7-1-1 (Ohio relay service). Office of Ohio Consumers’ Counsel The Ohio Consumers’ Counsel (OCC) represents residential utility customers in matters before the PUCO. The OCC can be contacted at 1-877-742-5622 (toll free) from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, or at http://www.pickocc.org. Rights and Responsibilities A summary of customer rights and responsibilities is available at ColumbiaGasOhio.com or by calling 1-800344-4077. Information covers rules regarding service installation, security deposits, billing and payment, payment plans, low-income assistance, disconnection and reconnection of service, meter reading and testing, usage and payment history, natural gas safety, maintenance of customer owned service lines, employee identification, rate information and alternatives, Customer CHOICE, privacy rights, and complaint procedures. You may obtain a copy of the full minimum gas service standards at the PUCO website or phone numbers shown above. Apples to Apples For a comparison of available competitive natural gas suppliers, visit the PUCO website at www.energychoice.ohio.gov or call 1-800-6867826.

Detail Charges Fixed Monthly Delivery Charge Infrastructure Replacement Program Rider Usage Based Charges

Delivery - Columbia Gas of Ohio Gross Receipts Tax @ 4.987%

Taxes & Fees Standard Choice Offer Gas Supply Cost Incl Sales Tax

Supply - ABC Gas Supply

Total Current Utility Charges •

Current billing charges include Nextera Energy Services (Nopec) gas sup of $25.87 at the SCO rate of $0.39200 per Ccf and sales tax of $2.07.

Customer CHOICE Program As a participant of the Columbia Gas Customer CHOICE Program, your gas i supplied by Nextera Energy Services (Nopec). This bill reflects Columbia Gas for service and delivery of natural gas and your supplier's charges for the gas For questions about your gas supply charges, please contact Nextera Energy (Nopec), 20455 Sh 249 Suite 200, Houston TX 77070, at 1-855-667-3201. If you questions are not resolved after you have called your supplier or Governmen aggregator, you may call the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) or th Consumers' Counsel (OCC) toll free number(s) listed under Legal Information column of your bill.

Infrastructure Replacement Program An annual adjustment to the Infrastructure Replacement Program Rider has b reflected on your bill. The rider recovers costs associated with Columbia's inv replacement of risers, customer service lines, bare steel mains, and installatio automated meter reading devices. Beginning April 29, 2016, the adjustment r increase of $0.94 to your total bill each month.

Energy Efficiency Your bill also reflects an annual adjustment to the Demand-Side Managemen $0.02220/ccf to recover costs associated with Columbia's investment in energ efficiency programs for residential and commercial customers.

Message Board • • • •

Enjoy the convenience of managing your account online by enrolling in P Billing. Monthly email alerts, 24/7 account access and up to two years of and payment history! Enroll today at ColumbiaGasOhio.com/Paperles Never worry about missing a payment or writing a check again by enroll Automatic Payment today at ColumbiaGasOhio.com. Take the seasonal highs and lows out by dividing your yearly energy use equal monthly payments - for budgeting that's a whole lot easier. Enroll ColumbiaGasOhio.com/Budget. Want to reduce your natural gas usage by as much as 30%? For a $50 au trained Home Energy Auditor will identify ways to help save you money, sacrificing comfort.

Schedule your audit today by calling 1-877-644-6674 or visit ColumbiaGasOhio.com/HPS. Some restrictions apply. Available on firstserve basis.

Bankruptcy Notices Mail to Columbia Gas of Ohio, Revenue Recovery, PO Box 117, Columbus, OH 43216. Other Correspondence (except payments) Mail to Columbia Gas of Ohio, P.O. Box 2318, Columbus, OH 43216-2318 or contact us at ColumbiaGasOhio.com.

Indicates where you will find out if you are a NOPEC member.

Change Contact Information

HeatShare Contribution

If information is incorrect in the Account Profile, please update and print clearly in the space provided below.

HeatShare, Columbia Gas of Ohio's fuel fund program, is last resort for households who have exhausted all other so assistance and still have trouble paying their heating bills. 'is supported through donations from Columbia Gas cust matching contributions from Columbia Gas.

Address

Customer CHOICE Program Gas Supply Cost Incl Sales Tax

$35.45

City

Supply - NextEra Energy Services Ohio, LLC (Nopec) State

* Your donation is tax-cleductible.

+$35.45

Monthly Contribution

Zip Code

$10

One-Time Contributi

• Current billing charges include NextEra Energy Services Ohio, LLC (Nopec) gas supply costs of $33.13 at the rate of $0.3313 per Ccf and sales tax of $2.32. $

Phone Number

Add or Edit Email

Standard Choice Offer Gas Supply Cost Incl Sales Tax

$35.67

Supply - ABC Gas Supply •

+$35.67

Current billing charges include ABC Gas Supply costs of $33.33 at the SCO rate of $0.3333 per Ccf and sales tax of $2.34.

678 002 000 2 e: 05/31/2016 39637 Page 2 of 2

Comparing your Columbia Gas of Ohio Bill to Other Mail Offers

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+$1.54 $27.94

Supply Charges

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Types of Supply Charge Offers Rates shown are for illustration purposes only. Aggregation Program Rate (i.e. NOPEC) An aggregation program brings citizens and small businesses together to gain group buying power for the purchase of competitively priced natural gas from a retail natural gas supplier certified by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO).

GLOSSARY

Aggregator A person who contracts with customers to combine the customersâ€™ electric load for the purpose of purchasing retail electric generation service on an aggregated basis. The term does not include a governmental aggregator.

CCF Measure of the volume of natural gas. One Ccf means 100 cubic feet.

Competitive Retail Electric Service (CRES) Provider A retail electric service provider that is certified by the PUCO and competes for your business by offering alternative competitive prices, renewable energy options or other services and incentives.

Competitive Retail Natural Gas Service (CRNGS) Provider A retail natural gas service provider that is certified by the PUCO and competes for your business by offering alternative competitive prices, renewable energy options or other services and incentives.

Kilowatt Hour (kWh) Kilowatt hour is a derived unit of energy equal to 3.6 megajoules. If the energy is being transmitted or used at a constant rate (power) over a period of time, the total energy in kilowatt-hours is the product of the power in kilowatts and the time in hours. The kilowatt-hours is commonly used as a billing unit for energy delivered to consumers by electric utilities.

Local Electric Utility The company that delivers your electricity to your home or business.

Local Distribution Company (LDC) Your local electric or natural gas company.

MCF Measure of volume of natural gas. One Mcf equals 1,000 cubic feet of natural gas.

Monthly Variable Rate The Monthly Variable Rate (MVR) is an unregulated rate that former Energy Choice or municipal aggregation opt-in customers may pay for their natural gas consumption if they have not selected a retail natural gas supplier or aggregation program. Eligible nonresidential and large volume customers who donâ€™t choose an Energy Choice supplier will also be placed on an MVR commodity service. Customers on an MVR rate purchase their natural gas from a designated MVR retail supplier.

Power Broker A person who assumes the contractual and legal responsibility for the sale and/or arrangement for supply of retail electric generation service to a retail customer without taking title to the power supplied.

Power Marketer A person who assumes the contractual and legal responsibility for the sale and provision of retail electric generation service to a retail customer who had title to the electric power provided at some point during the transaction.

Price to Compare (PTC) The price per kilowatt-hour (kWh) that your electric distribution company will charge to provide generation if you receive default service. It is also used as a comparison to help you decide if you can save money by choosing another supplier.

Service Delivery Identifier Number The number you must provide to your new provider when youâ€™re ready to switch. It is not the same as your account number.

C O N TA C T S

NOPEC Office 31360 Solon Road, Suite 33 Solon, Ohio 44139 440.248.1992 | www.nopecinfo.org

Chuck Keiper Executive Director 440.249.7826 | ckeiper@nopecinfo.org

Leigh Herington Executive Senior Associate 440.248.1992 | lherington@nopecinfo.org

Norma Fox Horwitz Special Projects Manager 440.249.7829 | nfhorwitz@nopecinfo.org

Mike Kochilla IT Director 440.249.7830 | mkochilla@nopecinfo.org

Charles Ramer Senior Relationship Manager 440.249.4195 | cramer@nopecinfo.org

Nicole Sweet Relationship Manager 440.249.7833 | nsweet@nopecinfo.org

Patrick McNamara Relationship Manager 440.249.7832 | pmcnamara@nopecinfo.org

Mary Ripley Communications Manager 440.249.6119 | mripley@nopecinfo.org

Tony Ramos Community Outreach Manager 440.249.6114 | aramos@nopecinfo.org

NOPEC Customer Service For information regarding NOPEC’s Energy Programs, how to join, or NOPEC pricing: 855-NOPEC01 (855.667.3201) For questions regarding your bill or service at your location: Electric AEP – 800.672.2231 The Illuminating Company – 800.589.3101 Ohio Edison – 800.633.4766 Natural Gas Columbia Gas of Ohio – 800.344.4077 Dominion East Ohio – 800.362.7557

31360 Solon Road, Suite 33 Solon, Ohio 44139 nopecinfo.org