COLUMBUS, OH – Americans for Prosperity–Ohio (AFP-OH) today celebrated the passage of the amended House Bill 15, which is now on its way to the governor’s desk to be signed into law. The bill includes several key reforms long championed by AFP-OH in their Better Energy Policy for Ohio framework, marking a turning point in the state’s energy policy.
“AFP-OH is grateful to Representative Klopfenstein and Senator Reineke for their leadership in making meaningful energy reform a priority this session,” said Donovan O’Neil, State Director for AFP-OH. “With House Bill 15, Ohio is taking a bold step toward a free-market energy future that will reduce costs, improve reliability, and enhance transparency for all consumers.”
Key Provisions of House Bill 15 Reflect Principles from the Better Energy Policy for Ohio:
- Eliminates Costly Subsidies
Principle: End Government Subsidies That Damage Energy Markets
HB 15 ends the OVEC subsidies, saving Ohio ratepayers an estimated $80 million in 2025 alone. - Restores Market Discipline in Rate-Setting
Principle: Promote Transparency and Competition
Utilities will now be required to use Market Rate Offers as the basis for pricing, allowing competitive forces—not bureaucrats or utility lawyers—to determine energy prices. - Empowers Consumers in the Retail Energy Market
Updates to the Competitive Retail Electric Services platform (formerly “Apples to Apples”) will make it easier for Ohioans to shop for the best rates, while new rules improve how customers are notified about their options. - Accelerates Development of New Energy Projects
Principle: Focus on Energy Reliability and Affordability
By lowering tangible personal property taxes for new electric generation facilities, the bill makes it more attractive to invest in Ohio-based power projects. - Streamlines Energy Project Approvals
Principle: The Permitting Process Needs to Be Faster and More Efficient
HB 15 imposes tighter deadlines on both the Ohio Power Siting Board and the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO), ensuring that new energy proposals receive timely decisions.
“This is a major victory for Ohio energy consumers,” O’Neil added. “For too long, politically connected utilities have driven policy behind closed doors. H.B. 15 replaces that cronyism with a clear, transparent, and competitive framework that puts people first. We commend the 136th General Assembly for embracing these much-needed reforms and bringing our shared principles into law.”
AFP-OH will continue to advocate for policies that promote innovation, transparency, and lower costs—ensuring Ohio remains a national leader in energy policy.