NE Ohio Times

State Representative Steve Demetriou of Bainbridge Township has cast his vote in favor of House Bill 15, a proposal designed to enhance power generation in Ohio. The bill aims to improve the affordability and reliability of electricity for state residents.

Demetriou expressed support for the initiative, stating, "Following years of inflation, Ohio ratepayers deserve the relief that House Bill 15 seeks to provide. Ohio ratepayers will get to reap the cost savings of holding utilities accountable and creating a market-driven approach to power generation."

House Bill 15 introduces several measures intended to strengthen Ohio's economy by providing reliable and affordable energy. It allows intrastate transmission, enabling more parties to enter the market and expand Ohio's grid. Additionally, local communities can apply for a "priority investment area" designation that exempts companies from paying certain taxes on infrastructure for five years.

The bill also seeks to improve energy affordability across the state by eliminating Electric Security Plans (ESP) in favor of requiring utility companies to present rate cases before the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO). This change is meant to close existing loopholes and ensure comprehensive reviews that protect ratepayers. Other provisions include making all Standard Service Offers (SSO) Market Rate Offers (MRO), prohibiting certain bidding practices by Electric Distribution Utilities (EDU), and establishing Multi-Year Rate Plans (MYRP).

To address future energy needs, House Bill 15 prohibits EDUs from owning generation facilities, thereby promoting a competitive market environment. It sets new regulatory timelines with PUCO and OPSB and reduces specific taxes on new generation equipment starting in tax year 2027. The legislation requires transparency through capacity heat maps and annual reports on grid modernization.

The Community Energy Pilot Program is also established under this bill, aiming to revitalize brownfields and diversify energy generation throughout Ohio communities.

This legislative effort responds to increased electricity demand as Ohio continues its growth as a tech hub in the Midwest, attracting companies like Anduril, Honda, and Intel. The bill now awaits consideration by the Ohio Senate.