More recently some AEP Ohio customers received higher-than-expected utility bills after being automatically "opted in" to a "clean energy" program.  Of course, AEP Ohio is no stranger to controversy.  In June 2022, the company was accused of cutting power to a disproportionate number of low-income residents "to preserve the grid" during a weather emergency.  A few months later, the company admitted that "advancements" in its technology (see 1, 2) – including problematic smart meters and smart grids which are often laughably promoted as "green" – haven't improved reliability. But I digress.

From NBC4i:

From NBC4i:

Clean energy program automatically opts customers in to higher rates

by: Sarah Szilagy

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – If your electric bill has gone up in recent months, it may be because your home is being powered by clean energy.

Some AEP Ohio customers in Columbus have been opted into the Clean Energy Columbus Program, which switches households' energy sources to clean energy provided by AEP Energy. Although the initial stage of the program sent eligible residents and small businesses opt-out forms, since June 2022, customers have been automatically opted into the program after being notified via mail.