NE Ohio Times

State Representative Sarah Fowler Arthur, a Republican from Ashtabula, has cast her vote in favor of House Bill 15. This bill is designed to enhance power generation in Ohio through market-driven initiatives, aiming to improve affordability for ratepayers and increase the reliability of the state's electrical grid.

"H.B. 15 seeks to support Ohio’s growing demand for energy by a market-driven boost to our power generation. We must increase production to prevent black and brown outs, protect the safety of our constituents – especially those in all-electric homes, and to keep energy costs affordable to Ohio families. The bill also promotes transparency – an essential component for consumer protection," stated Representative Fowler Arthur.

House Bill 15 proposes several changes:

- It aims to strengthen Ohio's economy by providing reliable and affordable energy.

- The bill allows intrastate transmission, encouraging more parties to enter the market and expand Ohio's grid.

- Local communities can apply for a "priority investment area" designation, which exempts companies from paying certain taxes on infrastructure for five years.

The legislation also addresses energy affordability:

- It eliminates the option for utility companies to file an Electric Security Plan (ESP), requiring them instead to approach the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) for rate cases.

- All Standard Service Offers (SSO) must become Market Rate Offers (MRO).

- Electric Distribution Utilities (EDU) are prohibited from bidding in the wholesale market with assets funded by distribution customers.

- The collection of new funds for the Solar Generation Fund will cease, with remaining funds refunded back to ratepayers.

- Multi-Year Rate Plans (MYRP) at PUCO are established, allowing utilities to propose base rate changes with annual reviews.

For future energy needs:

- EDUs are prohibited from owning generation facilities.

- New regulatory timelines are set for PUCO and OPSB processes.

- Tax reductions on new generation equipment and infrastructure are planned starting in tax year 2027.

- EDUs must update capacity heat maps on their websites annually.

This legislation is part of Ohio's response to increased electricity demand as it grows as a tech hub in the Midwest. Companies like Anduril, Honda, and Intel have contributed to this growth. The bill now awaits consideration by the Ohio Senate.