The bill amends section 4928.67 of the Revised Code and introduces new sections 4928.675 through 4928.6711, focusing on virtual net metering and meter aggregation for electric utilities in Ohio. It requires electric utilities to create standard contracts or tariffs for net metering that are consistent for both hospitals and mercantile customers who are also customer-generators. Notably, mercantile customers are allowed to have a separate contract that includes options for billing transmission service costs through their competitive retail electric service supplier, with the stipulation that their net metering system capacity must be less than fifty megawatts.

Additionally, the bill establishes definitions and requirements for virtual net metering systems, mandating that electric utilities assist these customers in calculating their electricity needs and developing tailored contracts. It ensures that virtual net metering customers are not subjected to extra costs beyond compliance with safety and performance standards. The legislation promotes renewable energy use while providing flexibility for hospitals and mercantile customers. It introduces new legal language regarding the regulation of virtual net metering systems, including requirements for safety and reliability, and repeals the existing section 4928.67, signaling a shift towards updated regulations.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 4928.67