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CenterPoint Energy files request to recover investments in pipeline safety and modernization in west central Ohio

Significant capital investments include pipeline replacement, modern meters and advanced leak detection as part of commitment to improve safety and modernize service

2024-10-29T05:00:00Z

Dayton – Oct. 29, 2024 – CenterPoint Energy's Ohio-based natural gas business today filed an application with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) to recover costs incurred to build a safer and more modern natural gas system for more than 333,000 customers in its 16-county service area in West Central Ohio. The company's proposal includes recovery of costs for critical and continued investments in gas safety, reliability and infrastructure improvements.

“Our top priority is to continue to strengthen the safety and reliability of the natural gas service we provide to our customers and communities," said Ashley Babcock, CenterPoint's Vice President of Gas Operations, Indiana and Ohio. “From installing new industry-grade pipes and more advanced meters, to improving leak detection and meeting the needs of our customers, these investments support our ability to deliver the level of service that our customers expect and deserve."

Ongoing gas system safety improvements

To meet the region's needs, CenterPoint has invested $830 million in its Ohio natural gas infrastructure since 2018. Key benefits to customers from investments have included:

Pipeline replacement: Nearly 400 miles of bare steel and cast-iron pipes, along with approximately 70 miles of coated steel, have been replaced.
System modernization: Approximately 30,000 new advanced meters have been installed to enhance measurement accuracy and integrate safety features.
Leak detection and mitigation: The deployment of Picarro leak detection technology has improved safety by identifying leaks earlier and reduced methane emissions.
Service expansion: New service lines and more than 12,500 new gas service installations have been completed, expanding access in residential and business communities while supporting economic growth and development.

CenterPoint has collaborated with local leaders on transformative projects, such as extending natural gas service to support the Menards manufacturing facility in Fayette County, which brought an $81.5 million investment and 150 new jobs, and the Royal Canin pet food facility in Preble County, attracting $390 million and 224 jobs.

Transmission line upgrades: Large high-pressure pipelines have been upgraded to meet regulatory standards.

CenterPoint's proposal, which represents the first time in six years the company has sought a rate adjustment, would result in an increase of approximately $23 per month for the average residential customer. The PUCO's review of CenterPoint's request is expected to take several months, with a final decision expected by early 2026. During this time, CenterPoint is committed to engaging with its customers and welcomes public input as part of its commitment to meet the current and future needs of its natural gas customers.

A commitment to supporting our customers
CenterPoint is committed to supporting its customers with a variety of programs, as well as tips and tools that provide assistance for those facing financial hardship, while also providing help to all customers to better manage bills and save energy. Among the programs, tips and tools available include:

Choice Program: Through CenterPoint's natural gas Choice Program, customers can choose a natural gas supplier that's right for them. Competing suppliers offer more pricing options for consumers, such as locking in a fixed rate, which allows them to comparison shop for energy the way they do for other products and services. Customers who do not choose a third-party supplier are served by one of five default Standard Choice Offer suppliers at a variable rate. Visit CenterPointEnergy.com/Choice for a list of suppliers and up-to-date prices.

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP): State and federal utility assistance dollars are available for income-eligible customers. Households must fall at or below 175 percent of federal poverty guidelines to apply. Visit development.ohio.gov or call (800) 282-0880 to learn more.

HEAP Winter Crisis Program: The HEAP Winter Crisis Program provides assistance once per heating season to eligible households that are disconnected or are threatened with disconnection. Households must fall at or below 175 percent of federal poverty guidelines to apply. Visit development.ohio.gov or call (800) 282-0880 to learn more.

Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus (PIPP Plus): PIPP Plus calls for a qualified household to pay 5 percent of its monthly income for gas service throughout the year. To be eligible for the PIPP Plus program, a customer must receive his or her primary or secondary heat source from a company regulated by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, must have a total household income which is at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty level and must apply for all energy assistance programs for which he or she is eligible.

Due Date Extension and Payment Arrangement: These are two free offerings available to customers in need of a special payment plan to temporarily keep their service connected and better manage energy costs.

Energy Efficiency Resources: CenterPoint offers energy efficiency tips, appliance rebates and energy-saving tools to help customers lower their natural gas bills. All Ohio residential natural gas customers are eligible to submit rebates by November 1, 2024. Visit CenterPointEnergy.com/SmartSavings or call 1-800-227-1376 for additional information.

Budget Bill: Under this billing plan, a customer's estimated costs for gas service are spread in equal amounts throughout the year. This leveling of monthly bill amounts reduces the need to pay the full amount in the winter and spreads some of those higher bill charges into the non-heating months. Customers can learn more and enroll for free at CenterPointEnergy.com or by calling 1-800-227-1376.

Home Weatherization: CenterPoint's home weatherization program helps qualifying Ohio customers implement energy efficiency improvements to their homes at no cost. Households must fall within 300 percent of federal poverty guidelines to apply. Visit miamivalleycap.org to learn more.

CenterPoint Energy delivers natural gas to approximately 333,000 customers in all or portions of Auglaize, Champaign, Clark, Clinton, Darke, Fayette, Greene, Highland, Logan, Madison, Miami, Montgomery, Pickaway, Preble, Shelby and Warren counties.

About CenterPoint Energy, Inc.
As the only investor-owned electric and gas utility based in Texas, CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (NYSE: CNP) is an energy delivery company with electric transmission and distribution, power generation and natural gas distribution operations that serve more than 7 million metered customers in Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Ohio and Texas. With approximately 9,000 employees, CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been in business for more than 150 years. For more information, visit CenterPointEnergy.com.

Forward-looking statements
This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this news release, the words "anticipate," "believe," "continue," "could," "estimate," "expect," "forecast," "goal," "intend," "may," "objective," "plan," "potential," "predict," "projection," "should," "target," "will" or other similar words are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions of management which are believed to be reasonable at the time made and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Actual events and results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Any statements in this news release regarding future events that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Each forward-looking statement contained in this news release speaks only as of the date of this release. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the provided forward-looking information include risks and uncertainties relating to: (1) CenterPoint Energy's business strategies and strategic initiatives; (2) financial market conditions; (3) general economic conditions; (4) the timing and impact of future regulatory and legislative decisions; and (5) other factors, risks and uncertainties discussed in CenterPoint Energy's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 and CenterPoint's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2024, June 30, 2024, and September 30, 2024 and other reports CenterPoint Energy or its subsidiaries may file from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Recent News

CenterPoint Energy provides tips to help Indiana customers stay safe and warm during upcoming cold snap

Indianapolis – Dec. 12, 2025 – With colder temperatures expected across Indiana this weekend, including highs in the teens and lows below zero, CenterPoint Energy reminds customers that it has a comprehensive cold weather action plan in place and is prepared for potential impacts from the colder weather. CenterPoint teams are monitoring conditions, coordinating with agencies and emergency responders, as appropriate, and remain ready to deploy resources as needed to maintain safe and reliable service. The company encourages customers to have their cold weather plan in place as well.

Natural gas preparedness actions in Indiana
CenterPoint prepares year-round for cold weather through proactive steps that support safe and reliable delivery of natural gas service to Indiana communities. The company's efforts include:

Monitoring the natural gas systems 24/7 and implementing cold weather action plans to support delivery of service.
Conducting infrastructure projects to modernize the company's natural gas distribution systems.
Checking critical systems and equipment ahead of extreme winter weather to prepare for high demand and cold temperatures.
Staging staff across the company's service area, ready to respond to potential service issues safely and as quickly as possible.

Safety tips
CenterPoint encourages customers to keep safety at the forefront of their minds as they heat their homes:

Immediately report a suspected natural gas leak. If there's a “rotten egg" odor of natural gas present, immediately leave on foot, go to a safe location and call both 911 and CenterPoint Energy at 800-227-1376. Don't use electric switches and outlets, phones (including cell phones), drive or start a car inside or close to the location or do anything that could cause a spark.
Keep natural gas meters clear. Use a broom to gently remove snow, but avoid using a shovel, which can cause damage. If ice builds up, let it melt naturally rather than trying to chip or melt it away. Keep the area around the meter clear of snow piles to allow safe access in an emergency.
Use space heaters safely. Make sure a space heater has an automatic shut-off, and keep children, pets and all items at least three feet away from it. A space heater that uses natural gas, propane or wood should be vented to the outside. Stoves and ovens should never be used for space heating.
Test carbon monoxide (CO) and smoke alarms to make sure they work properly. Change batteries regularly. Alarms don't last forever, so replace them according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Know the signs of CO poisoning. Early symptoms such as headache and fatigue are similar to the flu, but without a fever. Continued CO exposure can lead to more severe headaches, dizziness, nausea, difficulty thinking clearly and fainting. If everyone in a household is experiencing these symptoms, it could be CO poisoning. If CO poisoning is suspected, leave the area immediately, get fresh air and call 911.

Energy-saving tips
CenterPoint encourages customers to consider implementing easy tips that can help manage energy usage, including:

Make sure the heating system is operating safely and efficiently. Change or clean the furnace filter regularly to help maximize the furnace's efficiency and life.
Turn down the thermostat. Lowering the thermostat at night or when away for at least eight hours can potentially save on heating costs. With a programmable thermostat, a heating system can work around a customer's schedule.
Keep warm air in and cold air out of the home. Use caulk or weather-stripping to seal leaks around doors, windows and other openings such as pipes or ducts. Towels can also be rolled up and pushed against the bottom of a door's interior. Close fireplace dampers when not in use to prevent heat loss.
Use window coverings and blinds effectively. If it's sunny outside, open window coverings during the day to capture warmth from the sun, and close coverings at night to keep warmth inside.
Circulate warm air with ceiling fans. Set ceiling fans to turn clockwise and slowly to move warm air from the ceiling to living levels.

Resource Hub available for customers
To help customers manage energy use and bills during cold weather, CenterPoint offers an online Customer Resource Hub. The hub provides easy access to billing tools, energy efficiency programs and tips and other resources. To learn more, visit CenterPointEnergy.com/ResourceHub.

CenterPoint Energy provides tips to help southwestern Indiana customers stay safe and warm during upcoming cold snap

Evansville, Ind. – Dec. 12, 2025 – With colder temperatures expected across southwestern Indiana this weekend, including highs in the teens and lows in the single digits, CenterPoint Energy reminds customers that it has a comprehensive cold weather action plan in place and is prepared for potential impacts from the colder weather. CenterPoint teams are monitoring conditions, coordinating with agencies and emergency responders, as appropriate, and remain ready to deploy resources as needed to maintain safe and reliable service. The company encourages customers to have their cold weather plan in place as well.

Electric and natural gas preparedness actions in southwestern Indiana
CenterPoint prepares year-round for cold weather through proactive steps that support safe and reliable delivery of electric and natural gas service to southwestern Indiana communities. The company's efforts include:

Monitoring the electric and natural gas systems 24/7 and implementing cold weather action plans to support delivery of service.
Conducting infrastructure projects to modernize the company's electric and natural gas distribution systems.
Checking critical systems and equipment ahead of extreme winter weather to prepare for high demand and cold temperatures.
Staging staff across the company's service area, ready to respond to potential service issues safely and as quickly as possible.

Safety tips
CenterPoint encourages customers to keep safety at the forefront of their minds as they heat their homes:

Use space heaters safely. Make sure a space heater has an automatic shut-off, and keep children, pets and all items at least three feet away from it. A space heater that uses natural gas, propane or wood should be vented to the outside. Stoves and ovens should never be used for space heating.
Test carbon monoxide (CO) and smoke alarms to make sure they work properly. Change batteries regularly. Alarms don't last forever, so replace them according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Know the signs of CO poisoning. Early symptoms such as headache and fatigue are similar to the flu, but without a fever. Continued CO exposure can lead to more severe headaches, dizziness, nausea, difficulty thinking clearly and fainting. If everyone in a household is experiencing these symptoms, it could be CO poisoning. If CO poisoning is suspected, leave the area immediately, get fresh air and call 911.
Immediately report a electric outage or downed power lines. Customers should never approach downed lines and should assume they are live. If a downed line is spotted, leave the area and call 911 and CenterPoint Energy at 800-227-1376.
Immediately report a suspected natural gas leak. If there's a “rotten egg" odor of natural gas present, immediately leave on foot, go to a safe location and call both 911 and CenterPoint Energy at 800-227-1376. Don't use electric switches and outlets, phones (including cell phones), drive or start a car inside or close to the location or do anything that could cause a spark.
Keep natural gas meters clear. Use a broom to gently remove snow, but avoid using a shovel, which can cause damage. If ice builds up, let it melt naturally rather than trying to chip or melt it away. Keep the area around the meter clear of snow piles to allow safe access in an emergency.

Energy-saving tips
CenterPoint encourages customers to consider implementing easy tips that can help manage energy usage, including:

Make sure the heating system is operating safely and efficiently. Change or clean the furnace filter regularly to help maximize the furnace's efficiency and life.
Turn down the thermostat. Lowering the thermostat at night or when away for at least eight hours can potentially save on heating costs. With a programmable thermostat, a heating system can work around a customer's schedule.
Keep warm air in and cold air out of the home. Use caulk or weather-stripping to seal leaks around doors, windows and other openings such as pipes or ducts. Towels can also be rolled up and pushed against the bottom of a door's interior. Close fireplace dampers when not in use to prevent heat loss.
Use window coverings and blinds effectively. If it's sunny outside, open window coverings during the day to capture warmth from the sun, and close coverings at night to keep warmth inside.
Circulate warm air with ceiling fans. Set ceiling fans to turn clockwise and slowly to move warm air from the ceiling to living levels.

CenterPoint Energy provides tips to help Ohio customers stay safe and warm during upcoming cold snap

Dayton, Ohio – Dec. 12, 2025 – With colder temperatures expected across Ohio this weekend, including highs in the teens and lows in the single digits, CenterPoint Energy reminds customers that it has a comprehensive cold weather action plan in place and is prepared for potential impacts from the colder weather. CenterPoint teams are monitoring conditions, coordinating with agencies and emergency responders, as appropriate, and remain ready to deploy resources as needed to maintain safe and reliable service. The company encourages customers to have their cold weather plan in place as well.

Natural gas preparedness actions in Ohio
CenterPoint prepares year-round for cold weather through proactive steps that support safe and reliable delivery of natural gas service to Ohio communities. The company's efforts include:

Monitoring the natural gas systems 24/7 and implementing cold weather action plans to support delivery of service.
Conducting infrastructure projects to modernize the company's natural gas distribution systems.
Checking critical systems and equipment ahead of extreme winter weather to prepare for high demand and cold temperatures.
Staging staff across the company's service area, ready to respond to potential service issues safely and as quickly as possible.

Safety tips
CenterPoint encourages customers to keep safety at the forefront of their minds as they heat their homes:

Immediately report a suspected natural gas leak. If there's a “rotten egg" odor of natural gas present, immediately leave on foot, go to a safe location and call both 911 and CenterPoint Energy at 800-227-1376. Don't use electric switches and outlets, phones (including cell phones), drive or start a car inside or close to the location or do anything that could cause a spark.
Keep natural gas meters clear. Use a broom to gently remove snow, but avoid using a shovel, which can cause damage. If ice builds up, let it melt naturally rather than trying to chip or melt it away. Keep the area around the meter clear of snow piles to allow safe access in an emergency.
Use space heaters safely. Make sure a space heater has an automatic shut-off, and keep children, pets and all items at least three feet away from it. A space heater that uses natural gas, propane or wood should be vented to the outside. Stoves and ovens should never be used for space heating.
Test carbon monoxide (CO) and smoke alarms to make sure they work properly. Change batteries regularly. Alarms don't last forever, so replace them according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Know the signs of CO poisoning. Early symptoms such as headache and fatigue are similar to the flu, but without a fever. Continued CO exposure can lead to more severe headaches, dizziness, nausea, difficulty thinking clearly and fainting. If everyone in a household is experiencing these symptoms, it could be CO poisoning. If CO poisoning is suspected, leave the area immediately, get fresh air and call 911.

Energy-saving tips
CenterPoint encourages customers to consider implementing easy tips that can help manage energy usage, including:

Make sure the heating system is operating safely and efficiently. Change or clean the furnace filter regularly to help maximize the furnace's efficiency and life.
Turn down the thermostat. Lowering the thermostat at night or when away for at least eight hours can potentially save on heating costs. With a programmable thermostat, a heating system can work around a customer's schedule.
Keep warm air in and cold air out of the home. Use caulk or weather-stripping to seal leaks around doors, windows and other openings such as pipes or ducts. Towels can also be rolled up and pushed against the bottom of a door's interior. Close fireplace dampers when not in use to prevent heat loss.
Use window coverings and blinds effectively. If it's sunny outside, open window coverings during the day to capture warmth from the sun, and close coverings at night to keep warmth inside.
Circulate warm air with ceiling fans. Set ceiling fans to turn clockwise and slowly to move warm air from the ceiling to living levels.

With subzero temperatures expected across Minnesota, CenterPoint Energy provides important reminders to help customers save energy while staying safe and warm

Broll of energy efficiency and safety tips is found here.

MINNEAPOLIS – DEC. 11, 2025 – Over the coming days, subzero temperatures are expected throughout Minnesota. CenterPoint Energy reminds customers that it has a comprehensive cold weather action plan in place and is prepared for potential impacts from the colder weather. CenterPoint teams are monitoring conditions, coordinating with agencies and emergency responders, as appropriate, and remain ready to deploy resources as needed to maintain safe and reliable service. The company encourages customers to have their cold weather plan in place as well.

CenterPoint is highlighting important energy-saving and safety resources to help lower heating bills, while keeping customers safe and warm.

Preparedness actions in Minnesota
CenterPoint prepares year-round for cold weather in Minnesota through proactive efforts, such as:

Staging crews across the company’s service area to respond to potential service issues safely and as quickly as possible.
Monitoring the natural gas system 24/7 and implementing cold weather action plans.
Leveraging natural gas, propane and/or liquefied natural gas stored ahead of the winter heating season.

Winter Energy Guide
CenterPoint provides its Winter Energy Guide, an online resource hub for customers throughout the winter heating season, featuring important safety, energy savings and bill management tips to help customers stay safe and warm. CenterPoint encourages customers to use this helpful resource to create their own cold weather plans so to stay prepared for the colder weather ahead.

Tips customers can take to save energy and money
CenterPoint encourages customers to use these easy tips to make a difference on monthly heating bills:

Lowering the thermostat by 7-10 degrees at night, or when away for at least eight hours, can potentially save 10% on heating costs. Customers using a programmable thermostat to have the heating system work around their schedule.
Changing or cleaning the furnace filter to maximize efficiency.
Using window coverings and blinds effectively. If it’s sunny outside, open window coverings, and close coverings at night to keep warmth inside. If the sun’s not shining, keep window coverings closed.
Sealing leaks with caulk or weather-stripping around doors, windows and other openings such as pipes or ducts. Close fireplace dampers when not in use to prevent heat loss.
Circulating warm air with ceiling fans by setting them to turn clockwise slowly to move warm air to living levels.

Smart actions to stay safe

Use space heaters safely. Make sure a space heater has an automatic shut-off, and keep children, pets and all items at least three feet away from it. A space heater using natural gas, propane or wood should be vented to the outside. Stoves and ovens should never be used for space heating.
Test carbon monoxide (CO) and smoke alarms to make sure they work properly. Change batteries regularly. Alarms don’t last forever, so replace them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Know the signs of CO poisoning. Early symptoms such as headache and fatigue are similar to the flu, but without a fever. Continued CO exposure can lead to more severe headaches, dizziness, nausea, difficulty thinking clearly and fainting. If everyone in a household is experiencing these symptoms, it could be CO poisoning. If someone suspects they could have CO poisoning, leave the area immediately, get fresh air and call 911.
Smell gas? Act fast! Natural gas has a distinctive rotten egg smell. If anyone detects this odor, they should leave their location immediately without using electrical switches or phones. Once in a safe location, call 911 and CenterPoint Energy.

Payment assistance resources and support available for customers

CenterPoint is dedicated to supporting customers who may have difficulty paying their energy bill. Throughout the year, but especially in the winter months when home heating costs are historically higher, CenterPoint encourages those facing hardship to call CenterPoint to find out about payment arrangements, energy efficiency programs and agency resources that may be available. To learn more, customers should call 800-245-2377 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday-Friday, or visit CenterPointEnergy.com/PaymentAssistance.

CenterPoint Energy, Enel launch program to help southwestern Indiana businesses earn incentives for flexible energy use

Evansville, Ind., and Andover, Mass., December 11, 2025 – CenterPoint Energy and Enel North America have launched a new demand response program for commercial, institutional, and industrial organizations in southwestern Indiana. This initiative, called the CenterPoint Energy Aggregated Demand Response Program, enables organizations to earn incentive payments for making targeted energy reductions that help CenterPoint Indiana Electric maintain local grid reliability.

“Our focus remains on delivering reliable service to our customers and communities every day," said Muss Akram, Vice President of Utility Strategy at CenterPoint. “Through this program, we're working with Enel to strengthen reliability, manage demand and provide our customers an opportunity to be compensated for supporting the grid when it's needed most."

Demand response programs provide an opportunity for organizations to earn incentive payments while helping maintain a reliable electric system. When utilities or grid operators experience supply and demand constraints, they dispatch local organizations that have agreed to reduce energy usage during these times of high demand.

Commercial, institutional and industrial organizations in the CenterPoint Indiana Electric service territory are eligible to enroll in the new program. As the exclusive demand response provider for this program, Enel will work with organizations to define participation strategies, manage enrollment and execution, and maximize revenue from participating. During a demand response dispatch, the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) will instruct Enel's network of participants to curtail electricity usage in anticipation of emergency conditions on the grid. Common reduction strategies include modifying manufacturing processes, adjusting HVAC equipment and reducing non-essential lighting.

This program builds on CenterPoint's existing Smart Cycle demand response program for residential customers. Those participating in the Smart Cycle program can earn a one-time $75 enrollment credit and a $7.50 bill credit each month from March through November for participation. To learn more about this program, visit CenterPointEnergy.com/SmartCycle.

Enel is the world's largest demand response provider. In North America, Enel's demand response customers have earned over $1.9 billion in payments since 2011.

About CenterPoint Energy, Inc.
CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (NYSE: CNP) is a multi-state electric and natural gas delivery company serving approximately 7 million metered customers across Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio, and Texas. The company is headquartered in Houston and is the only Texas-domiciled investor-owned utility. As of September 30, 2025, the company had approximately $45 billion in assets. With approximately 8,300 employees, CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been serving customers for more than 150 years. For more information, visit CenterPointEnergy.com.

Enel North America, part of the Enel Group, is a proven renewables leader delivering clean, flexible and sustainable energy solutions. The company develops, builds, owns and operates renewable power plants and demand response solutions, with 12 gigawatts (GW) of installed wind, solar and energy storage capacity and nearly 5 GW of demand response capacity in the US and Canada. Enel is a top-five industry leader for clean power, demand response and utility-scale battery storage capacity in the United States. Learn more at enelnorthamerica.com and on LinkedIn and YouTube.