Brunswick Ohio: Power Outage Update

Power outages in Brunswick, Ohio, are often caused by severe weather, including high winds, lightning, winter storms, heat waves, rain, and flooding. For example, in December 2022, an Arctic cold front swept through the area, causing temperatures to drop to sub-zero and creating icy conditions on roadways. This resulted in sporadic tree damage and power outages. In the event of a power outage in Brunswick, residents should contact their local utility company, such as Ohio Edison, to report the issue.

How to report a power outage in Brunswick, Ohio

If you are experiencing a power outage in Brunswick, Ohio, there are a few ways to report it. You can contact your local utility company, such as Ohio Edison, by calling their outage number at (888) 544-4877. You can also report an outage online.

Alternatively, you can report a power outage by contacting the Brunswick Electric Membership Corporation (BEMC). BEMC offers multiple ways to report an outage, including calling their automated Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system at 1-800-682-5309, texting the same number, or submitting an online outage form. When you call the IVR system, it will immediately report your outage by recognizing your phone number and associated physical address. If you are not calling from the outage location, you can enter the phone number of the affected location when prompted. Once your location is verified, the IVR will confirm that your outage has been reported, and BEMC's electrical outage restoration process will begin.

In the case of a utility emergency or outage, you can also refer to the Brunswick Department of Service and Streets by calling 330-558-6804.

Contact information for Ohio Edison

Ohio Edison is a FirstEnergy company that oversees the transmission of electricity in Brunswick, Ohio. If you are experiencing a power outage in the area, you can contact Ohio Edison at 1-888-544-4877 (or 888-LIGHTSS). You can also report your outage online.

For general inquiries, Ohio Edison has an online Contact Us form. To reach a Customer Service Representative, you can call one of their Contact Centers during office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Their Interactive Voice Response System (IVR) is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Ohio Edison also has a dedicated phone number for customers who are at least 60 years old or receive a Social Security or pension check, or if they receive disability assistance. This number is 800-633-4766.

Additionally, Ohio Edison offers a Third-Party Notification service, where a third party (a friend, relative, clergy, or social service agency) can be notified, along with the customer, if their electric service is about to be disconnected. This third party is not obligated to pay overdue bills but can help remind the customer of pending disconnection and assist with making payment arrangements.

Electricity rates in Brunswick, Ohio

The average residential electricity rate in Brunswick, Ohio, is 20.70 cents (or 7.35 cents according to another source) for every kilowatt-hour. This is higher than the current statewide average of 17.03 cents per kilowatt-hour and the countrywide average of 15.73 cents per kilowatt-hour.

On average, residents in Brunswick pay $149.46 for their electricity each month, compared to the statewide monthly energy bill average of $141.88 and the national monthly average of $135.39.

It's important to note that energy prices may vary depending on usage. Energy plans can be complex, and the relationship between monthly kWh usage levels and specific electricity rates can be confusing for consumers.

Energy Suppliers in Brunswick, Ohio

Ohio Edison is the utility company that oversees the transmission of electricity in Brunswick. Residents can contact Ohio Edison to report power interruptions or outages.

There are a total of 10 companies providing electricity within the city limits, including Constellation Energy, Dynegy Energy Services, Freepoint Energy Solutions, and National Gas & Electric.

Choosing an Electricity Company

Websites like FindEnergy.com allow residents to compare electricity rates and plans from different providers in their area. The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio also offers an innovative tool that allows users to compare utility prices, contract terms, and other plan differences.

When choosing an electricity company, it's important to read the Terms of Service (ToS) of the energy plan to understand crucial energy information and make informed decisions.

Brunswick's deregulated electricity market

Brunswick, Ohio has a deregulated electricity market, which means that residents can choose from a variety of energy companies to buy electricity from. This competitive market gives consumers access to a range of energy plans at different price points.

The City of Brunswick participates in NOPEC, an energy aggregate that buys energy in bulk to achieve discounts on electricity and natural gas. Residents are automatically included in NOPEC unless they choose to opt out.

There are a total of 10 companies providing electricity within Brunswick, including Constellation Energy, Dynegy Energy Services, Freepoint Energy Solutions, and National Gas & Electric. The average price of electricity in Brunswick is 20.70 cents per kilowatt-hour, which is higher than the statewide and countrywide averages.

The deregulated market in Brunswick offers residents the advantage of choosing an energy provider that suits their needs and budget. The competition among energy companies encourages them to offer better prices, plans, and overall customer experiences.

Additionally, residents can use online tools and platforms like FindEnergy.com to compare electricity rates, plans, and providers in their area. These platforms help residents make informed decisions and avoid less reputable energy providers.

The process of switching energy providers is straightforward and can be done in a few minutes. Residents can also switch between electricity and natural gas plans with ease, allowing them to find the best option for their needs.

Power outages caused by weather

Power outages can be caused by a variety of weather conditions, and can be dangerous for those who rely on electricity for medical devices or vulnerable in extreme temperatures. In Brunswick, Ohio, power outages have been caused by winter storms, thunderstorms, and high winds.

Causes of Power Outages

Power outages can be caused by severe weather conditions, including:

• High winds
• Lightning
• Rain
• Tropical cyclones
• Hurricanes
• Ice storms
• Flooding
• Heatwaves
• Wildfires

Preparing for Power Outages

To prepare for a power outage, it is recommended to:

• Set your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest settings.
• Check flashlights and portable radios.
• Have extra batteries.
• Fully charge electronics.
• Maintain your HVAC system.
• Prepare generators and alternative heating supplies.
• Ensure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working.
• Fill your bathtub with water if you have well water.
• Get extra blankets and warm clothing.

What to Do During a Power Outage

During a power outage, it is important to:

• Stay away from downed power lines.
• Monitor media for emergency information.
• Follow instructions from public safety officials.
• Call 9-1-1 to report emergencies, including downed power lines.
• Unplug sensitive electronics to avoid power surges when power is restored.
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed.

Power Outages in Brunswick, Ohio

Brunswick, Ohio, has experienced power outages due to various weather conditions:

• Winter storms: In December 2022, an Arctic cold front brought snow, icy conditions, and strong winds, causing sporadic tree damage and power outages.
• Thunderstorm winds: In June 2020, strong winds snapped tree branches and power poles, leading to power outages.
• High winds: In April 2020, high winds caused a large tree to fall, resulting in downed power lines and scattered power outages.

Frequently asked questions