The Electricity Forecast Integrity Act amends section 4935.04 of the Revised Code to enhance the requirements for long-term forecast reports concerning major utility facilities. A key change is the redefinition of "major utility facility," lowering the threshold for electric transmission lines from 125 kilovolts to 60 kilovolts. The bill introduces new definitions for terms such as "electric light company," "summer," and "winter," and mandates that most utilities file reports annually, while gas and natural gas companies must file every three years. The content of these reports is expanded to include detailed forecasts of energy demand, peak loads, historical data, and planned infrastructure changes. Additionally, the bill requires independent third-party investigations of these reports to ensure transparency and accuracy, with findings made publicly available.

The legislation also outlines a new process for the commission to select and adopt long-term forecast reports, requiring a decision within ninety days of the hearing record's closure. The selection criteria have been broadened to include comprehensive representation of current activities and accurate historical data, while also considering factors like energy conservation and demand response. If submitted reports do not meet the criteria, the commission must deny approval and require a refiled report. The bill further stipulates that if a report is inaccurate for two consecutive years, the commission may impose forfeitures on the filing entity. It also clarifies that the commission's determinations will influence the power siting board's deliberations and establishes that only the supreme court can review these determinations, streamlining the appeals process. The existing section 4935.04 is repealed, and the amended section will be known as the Electricity Forecast Integrity Act.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 4935.04