A bill currently under consideration by the Ohio legislature, Senate Bill 294, could significantly impede the development of wind and solar energy projects within the state. The bill, which passed its third hearing in the Ohio Senate’s Energy Committee on Tuesday, February 10, could be advanced to a vote as early as the committee’s next meeting, according to state law.
Renewable Energy Restrictions
Senate Bill 294 would establish state policy requiring latest electricity-generation facilities to employ “affordable, reliable, and clean energy sources.” However, the bill’s definitions of these terms are restrictive and could effectively block new wind and solar development. According to testimony from Evangeline Hobbs, a deputy director at the American Clean Power Association, if enacted, the bill would prevent the Ohio Power Siting Board from approving renewable energy projects.
The legislation defines a “reliable energy source” as one that is “readily available” with minimal interruptions and maintains a 50 percent capacity factor – the ratio of actual power output to potential maximum output. This definition would exclude most land-based wind and solar generation. The bill similarly calls natural gas a “clean energy” source and potentially even some coal plants.
Potential Economic Impacts
Critics argue the bill’s definitions are not aligned with common usage and will distort the energy market. Michelle Solomon, manager of electricity for Energy Innovation, stated that a high capacity factor does not guarantee availability during extreme weather events. American Clean Power reported that failing to add more clean energy sources to the PJM Interconnection region could cost the average Ohio customer roughly $6,500 more by 2035.
The bill’s sponsors, Republicans George Lang of West Chester and Mark Romanchuk of Ontario, have expressed support for natural gas. Lang previously claimed renewable energy “doesn’t meet those qualifications of being cheap” and “misses the reliability.”
What Happens Next?
The bill’s future remains uncertain. If it passes out of the Energy Committee, it would move to a vote before the full Ohio Senate. Should it pass the Senate, it would then be considered by the Ohio House. The bill’s advancement depends on continued support from Republican lawmakers and could face opposition from environmental groups and renewable energy advocates. It is possible the bill could be amended before a final vote.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Senate Bill 294?
Senate Bill 294 is a bill currently being considered by the Ohio legislature that would establish rules for electricity-generation facilities, potentially impacting the development of wind and solar energy projects.
Who sponsored Senate Bill 294?
Senate Bill 294 is sponsored by Republicans George Lang of West Chester and Mark Romanchuk of Ontario.
What is the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC)?
The American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) is the source of the model legislation upon which Senate Bill 294 is based.
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