The bill seeks to amend section 4928.02 of the Revised Code and introduce new regulations to establish a community energy program and pilot program in Ohio. It defines key terms related to electricity measurement and community energy facilities, outlining requirements for their location, capacity, and subscriber criteria. The legislation emphasizes the state's commitment to promoting community energy facilities for consumer benefit, ensuring guaranteed savings for subscribers, and facilitating public participation through township resolutions regarding facility construction. The bill also mandates the Public Utilities Commission to create a community energy pilot program with a total capacity of 1,500 megawatts, certifying 250 megawatts annually until reaching 1,000 megawatts.

Furthermore, the bill introduces regulations for the operation of community energy facilities, including requirements for public meetings, detailed information on projects, and a net crediting program for billing processes. It prohibits large industrial customers from participating in the pilot program and ensures fair practices by mandating utilities to prioritize payments to community energy organizations. The legislation also addresses decommissioning requirements for community energy facilities and mandates financial assurances for such processes. Notably, the existing section 4928.02 is repealed, signifying a comprehensive update to the regulatory framework governing community energy initiatives in Ohio.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 4928.02