Kentucky environmental attorney Sanders says PUCO has adopted new rules that require aggressive alternative energy portfolio for utilities operating in Ohio.

Alternative energy rules are promulgated in Ohio.

On April 15^th, the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) adopted rules that require utilities to create an alternative energy portfolio.  The rules also incorporate new requirements for energy efficiency, long-term forecast and greenhouse gas reporting and carbon dioxide control planning.  As a result, Ohio is one of only 29 states and the District of Columbia that has adopted an alternative energy portfolio standard and one of only 14 that has a specific provision for solar resources

 

 

 

Ohio’s alternative energy portfolio standard requires that by 2025, at least 25 percent of electricity sold in the state by electric distribution utilities and electric services companies must be generated from alternative energy resources. At least half of this energy must come from renewable energy resources, including wind, biomass, hydro and fuel cell, and a minimum of one-half percent must come directly from solar resources. One half of these renewable energy facilities must be located in Ohio.

 

Electric utilities and service companies may use renewable energy credits (REC) to satisfy all or part of the renewable energy benchmarks. One REC represents the environmental attributes associated with the generation of one megawatt hour of electricity from an eligible renewable energy facility.

 

The PUCO staff will annually review compliance with the most recent benchmarks and file a report of its findings with the Commission. The Commission will then provide the Ohio General Assembly with an annual update on statewide compliance with the benchmarks and suggestions for encouraging the use of alternative energy resources in a manner that considers technology, costs, job creation and economic impact.

 

PUCO is the sole agency charged with regulating public utility service in Ohio. Consumers with utility-related questions or concerns can call the PUCO hotline at (800) 686-PUCO (7826) and speak with a representative.