West Stark News

State Representative Jim Thomas from Jackson Township has disclosed that the Ohio House of Representatives has concurred with Senate amendments to Substitute House Bill 15. This initiative focuses on enhancing consumer affordability and expanding energy generation, aiming to create a more reliable grid and support the state's economic growth.

Thomas expressed approval, stating, “I am pleased to support reliable and affordable energy for Ohioans for many years to come.”

Substitute House Bill 15 outlines several key updates:

Firstly, to improve energy affordability, the legislation removes the option for utility companies to file an Electric Security Plan, which necessitates their approach to the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio for a rate case. This move is intended to close loopholes related to ratepayer affordability and demand utilities undergo comprehensive reviews to determine consumer rates.

Furthermore, all Standard Service Offers would shift to Market Rate Offers. This change aims to increase transparency and empower consumers to make more informed energy purchasing decisions. Additionally, Electric Distribution Utilities will be barred from bidding in the wholesale market using assets funded by distribution customers.

The bill also addresses the Solar Generation Fund by halting new money collection and transferring surplus funds to the School Energy Performance Contracting Loan Fund. This fund is managed by the Ohio Facilities Commission, assisting educational boards with energy efficiency contracts.

Multi-Year Rate Plans are to be established at the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, allowing utilities to propose base rate changes with annual reviews, ensuring rates reflect actual costs.

Regarding Ohio’s energy needs for businesses, the bill prohibits Electric Distribution Utilities from owning generation assets. This measure supports a competitive market environment and is designed to prevent utilities from shifting financial responsibilities to ratepayers.

The legislation allows localities to request a “priority investment area” designation, which would exempt companies from specific taxes on infrastructure for five years, aimed at boosting energy generation development.

Additional changes include reducing certain Tangible Personal Property tax rates from 2027, requiring updated utility system capacity maps, and establishing annual stakeholder meetings and statewide reliability reports to address energy generation and infrastructure needs.

The bill is a response to the growing electricity generation demands as Ohio continues to evolve as a central tech hub in the Midwest. This legislation is part of a broader strategy to ensure Ohio meets the increasing electricity requirements linked to business growth and development, while enhancing affordability for residents.

Next, the bill will be presented for the signature of Governor DeWine.