The new version of House Bill 6 is essentially a distinction without a difference, and would drive the same conclusion if enacted - higher bills, dirtier air, and Ohio jobs at risk.
COLUMBUS, OH—The Ohio Environmental Council Action Fund stands firm that House Bill 6 still falls far short of what is required to ensure Ohio has a bright energy future. The following statement can be attributed in full, or in part, to Trish Demeter, advocate with the Ohio Environmental Council Action Fund:
“The new version of House Bill 6 is essentially a distinction without a difference, and would drive the same conclusion if enacted - higher bills, dirtier air, and Ohio jobs at risk. This new version of HB 6 falls far short of shepherding Ohio into a cleaner, more efficient energy future, and instead will set Ohio back. As a state, we should lean into clean energy, instead of significantly dialing back policies that attract more investment in Ohio, cut energy costs for Ohio families, and reduce harmful air pollution.
“While on paper the renewable portfolio standard (RPS) and energy efficiency resource standard (EERS) are maintained, albeit at lower targets than current law, in practice these standards will effectively fade away. This is due to dramatic changes proposed in the bill on how these policies are implemented, and the likelihood that utilities would no longer cut energy waste through energy efficiency rebate programs. By no means will this bill save Ohioans money on their electric bills, and if the bill is enacted, families and businesses will experience higher monthly bills.
“We appreciate that the Senate removed the poison pill provision that would allow for local referendum on wind farms, and the coal bailout appears to be permissive now, rather than mandated. Unfortunately, the bill still sets Ohio significantly back.
“This process has been rushed from the very start, and instead of implementing a policy with many unknowns, we encourage the Senate to take the time to thoroughly evaluate each policy change they are making in Sub. HB 6. We stand ready to work with the Senate to improve this bill further for the benefit of all Ohioans.”