AES & Duke Medical Power Programs

Keeping the Power On: Help for Households with Medically Necessary Devices

When the power goes out, most of us can manage the inconvenience with flashlights, backup batteries, or even just a little patience. But for households with someone who depends on electrically powered medical devices — such as oxygen concentrators, ventilators, or home dialysis equipment — a power outage isn’t just inconvenient. It can be life-threatening.

That’s why Clinton County Emergency Management wants to make sure residents know about special support programs offered by local electric utility providers for customers with serious medical conditions.

If a member of your household uses life-sustaining medical equipment, you may be eligible to register with your electric company for advance notice of planned outages and prioritized restoration where possible. While these programs do not guarantee uninterrupted service, they do help utilities know where vulnerable customers are located during outages or emergencies.

Here are two programs available to Clinton County residents, depending on your electric provider:

🔌 AES Ohio Customers

AES offers a notification and support option for customers who rely on electricity for medically necessary devices. While AES cannot ensure continuous service or provide priority power restoration, they encourage customers to fill out a Medical Certification Form.

📝 Learn more and download the form: https://www.aes-ohio.com/outages (Scroll down to the Power Outage FAQs and look for: “I have special medical condition and rely on electricity to keep medical equipment running...”)

🔋 Duke Energy Customers

Duke Energy offers a Life Support Program that flags your account for special attention in the event of service interruptions. They also offer a Medical Alert Program to provide proactive communications about outages.

📲 Learn more here: https://www.duke-energy.com/Home/Billing/Special-Assistance/Medical-Certificate-Request

💡 Tips for All Medically Dependent Households

Even if you’re registered, you should always have a backup plan in place:

• Talk to your doctor about emergency options during power failures.

• Keep batteries charged or consider a backup power supply like a generator or power bank.

• Build a support network of neighbors or family who can help in a crisis.

• Register for Clinton County Emergency Alerts (CCEA) to get notified of weather risks and local emergencies.

⚠️ Remember: Registering your household with your electric provider helps them understand your needs — but it is not a guarantee of power restoration or avoidance of disconnection. You are still responsible for maintaining payment on your account.

If you have questions or need help navigating these programs, reach out to Clinton County EMA or your utility provider directly. Preparedness starts with awareness — and for some, it can truly be lifesaving.