Governor DeWine Signs House Bill 15, Marking a Win for Ohio Consumers

Consumers' Counsel Maureen Willis gives testimony in support of HB15 during the Senate Energy Committee hearing. — Consumers' Counsel Maureen Willis gives testimony in support of HB15 during a Senate Energy Committee hearing.

House Bill 15 is a step forward for residential utility consumers in Ohio

This May, Governor Mike DeWine signed House Bill 15 into law, markinga major step forward for Ohio utility consumers. This legislation moves Ohio closer to a regulatory framework that better balances consumer protections and utility interests.

Improvements for Ohio Residential Consumers Under Ohio’s New Energy Law Include:

Ends Electric Security Plans (ESPs) - No More Riders!
Since 2008, electric utilities have used electric security plans as rate-increase schemes to secure higher rates between traditional rate cases.
Ends Coal Subsidies Mandated by Scandalous House Bill 6
The new law eliminates the coal plant subsidies created by the disgraceful House Bill 6. By the time HB 15 goes into effect this summer, Ohio consumers will have contributed nearly half a billion dollars to prop up two financially sound coal-fired plants.
Keeps Regulated Utilities Out of Generation and Limits Behind-the-Meter Expansion
This law upholds the vision from Ohio’s 1999 deregulation efforts, ensuring that monopoly distribution utilities remain focused on delivery, not energy generation or behind-the-meter services.
Introduces Multi-Year Rate Plans; Requires Rate Cases Every Three Years, A rate case is a reasonable, fair and transparent way to set charges for a utility. In such a case, a utility opens its books for an objective and comprehensive look at how much it costs to deliver a safe and reliable supply of energy with a fair and reasonable profit.
Preserves the Standard Service Offer (SSO)
The law protects the standard service offer, which is a market-based rate that is often highly competitive. Historically, consumers who opted for typical energy marketers' offers paid more than those who stayed with their electric utility's standard offer.
Adds New Protections Against Marketer Teaser Rates
These teaser offers have unnecessarily cost Ohio consumers millions with the high rates charged after the teaser period.

This bill marks important progress toward fairer utility bills for consumers. OCC appreciates the opportunity to have been actively engaged in constructive discussions throughout the legislative process and we extend our thanks to all who supported this consumer-focused bill. While further efforts remain necessary to fully safeguard consumer interests, House Bill 15 marks a meaningful step in the right direction.