Ohio's energy efficiency standards will remain in place thanks to AEE Ohio and other voices in Ohio's advanced energy industry. The standards, which had been facing a behind-the-scenes lobbying attack from First Energy Corp., help customers use less electricity by switching to efficient equipment, lighting, and other advanced building and energy management methods. The Plain Dealer reports:

Steve Caminati, vice president of public affairs for Advanced Energy Ohio, which first revealed FirstEnergy's lobbying campaign, said the company's change of plans "is a victory for consumers." "We are committed to driving the development of energy efficiency. And this standard has been a great tool for doing that -- helping ratepayers save money and Ohio be more competitive," Caminati said.