The plan for the distribution of more than 3.5 million compact fluorescent light bulbs to Ohioans is not finished yet. The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, PUCO, extended the deadline for receiving a plan from FirstEnergy from November 30, 2009 to December 15, 2009.

PUCO spokesman Matt Butler said, “the company had originally came in last week asking for an extension until the end of December. Some of the other parties thought an extension might be OK, but, let’s only do a week. The commission sort of landed in the middle and said, OK, let’s give them two weeks.”

The new plan is expected to outline how FirstEnergy will distribute 3.75 million compact flourescent light bulbs to homes and small business customers. The original plan caused an uproar with Ohio customers due to a slight increase in charges customers would see on their monthly bill.

The original plan would charge customers around 60 cents more every month for three years; about $21 total. The energy saving bulbs the company would be distributing are estimated to save an additional $60 in energy costs over their lifetimes.

Governor Ted Strickland also asked for FirstEnergy’s distribution plan to be postponed. In a letter Strickland said,

“First, the bulb program has been thrust upon them without their approval or prior knowledge. Second, it is my understanding that two bulbs will be provided at a cost in excess of $21.00. It is common knowledge that the efficient bulbs can be purchased for significantly less at popular retail outlets. Third, I am interested to know if there are any U.S. suppliers of these bulbs, or if First Energy had considered the use of bulbs manufactured in the United States.”

PUCO is asking that the new plan should describe how the energy saving light bulbs are to be distributed, how customers will be notified about the program, and information detailing the proper use of the compact fluorescent light bulbs