Public Utilities Commission of Ohio

Ohio is experiencing an energy affordability crisis, with electricity bills rising sharply, forcing families to choose between utilities, rent, and food. Local governments like Dayton are implementing large-scale community solar projects to provide fixed pricing and savings, contrasting with state regulators' inaction and utility rate hikes.

The Ohio Supreme Court upheld a utility commission decision allowing a fee to bailout coal plants, despite challenges claiming it led to $115 million in overcharges. The fee originated from Ohio House Bill 6, later repealed in 2025, and was tied to a bribery scandal. The court ruled the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio's (PUCO) cost determinations were justified.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine vetoed a bill regulating submetering companies that resell electricity to multi-unit complexes. The legislation aimed to provide consumer protections but faced criticism over unexplained fees and limited consumer choice. DeWine argued the submetering model is 'fundamentally flawed' and rejected the bill’s compromise approach to oversight.

Ohio lawmakers introduced a data center bill addressing tax incentives, water use, nondisclosure agreements, and utility billing. The legislation aims to cut tax breaks, cap property tax abatements, and require water conservation practices, but faces criticism over its rapid timeline and potential issues.

Ohio farmers fear a proposal by the Ohio Business Roundtable to expand eminent domain laws could allow data centers and energy projects to take private property before owners receive payment. The Ohio Farm Bureau opposes the 'deposit and build' program, arguing it threatens property rights by enabling construction to begin before compensation is finalized through court appeals.