Ohio may soon significantly reduce its renewable energy standards. Senate Bill 310 has passed the Senate and seems likely to pass the House as soon as this week.

Controversy Over Renewable Energy Standards

The bill would place a two-year freeze on annual increases in standards for renewable energy and energy efficiency. It also would repeal a rule that says utilities must buy half of their renewable energy from in-state sources and would make it easier for utilities to buy low-cost hydroelectric power and count it toward the standards.

There is mixed talk surrounding potential adjustments to the renewable energy standards. Some, such as the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), say they’re necessary because policy is flawed. Others, like Chelsea Barnes who represents clean energy clients, say that organizations such as ALEC and Americans for Prosperity (conservative group partly funded by the Koch brothers), have an unfair voice in the creation and passing of the bill. Senator Bill Seitz, a leading supporter of SB 310, is an ALEC board member.

Ohio’s renewable and energy-efficiency rules were both part of Senate Bill 221 in 2008.

Frog Hauling supports successful renewable energy initiatives. If changes to current standards need to be made, we hope they are not at the cost of the citizens and environment of Ohio.