Phil Plummer | The Ohio House of Representatives
Phil Plummer | The Ohio House of Representatives
State Representative Phil Plummer, a Republican from Dayton, expressed his support for House Bill 15, aimed at improving Ohio's power generation, affordability, and grid reliability. Plummer stated, “I’m honored to vote for House Bill 15, which streamlines our energy process, increases consumer protection, and eliminates a tax on our utilities saving ratepayers’ money.”
House Bill 15 proposes several initiatives to bolster Ohio's energy sector. It allows intrastate transmission to encourage market competition and gives local communities the chance to apply for a “priority investment area” status. This designation exempts companies from paying certain taxes for five years, encouraging new energy developments.
The bill also focuses on improving energy affordability. It eliminates utility companies’ option to file an Electric Security Plan, requiring rate cases to be reviewed by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) instead. The bill also mandates the use of Market Rate Offers, increases transparency, and prohibits Electric Distribution Utilities from bidding in markets with assets funded by customers.
Future energy needs for businesses are also addressed. The bill prevents Electric Distribution Utilities from owning generation to promote competition, reduces taxes on new energy infrastructure, and requires updated capacity heat maps for transparency. Additional measures include establishing the Community Energy Pilot Program to rejuvenate distressed lands and a requirement for annual reliability reports by the PUCO.
The legislation comes as Ohio continues to grow as a technology hub, attracting companies like Anduril, Honda, and Intel. It aims to meet increasing electricity demands while improving affordability.
The bill is now set to be considered by the Ohio Senate.
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