Ohio lawmakers have introduced legislation aimed at addressing rising electricity costs by requiring utility companies to provide stronger evidence supporting future infrastructure projects and long-term energy forecasts.

Electricity Forecast Integrity Act

The proposal, known as the Electricity Forecast Integrity Act, has gained support from lawmakers from both parties. Supporters argue that some utility companies have used projections that overestimate future energy demand, potentially leading to projects that increase costs for consumers without demonstrating a clear need.

According to lawmakers, the legislation is built around requiring utility companies to prove the necessity of major projects before associated costs can be passed on to customers. The proposal would strengthen requirements for forecasting reports used in utility planning and regulatory decision-making.

Sen. Mark Romanchuk said the legislation is intended to ensure energy decisions are based on reliable data. “This is about stopping bad math from becoming bad policy,” Romanchuk said. “It is about protecting customers before speculative costs are locked in. And it is about making sure Ohio’s energy decisions are based on evidence and not exaggeration.”

The proposal comes as Ohio families and businesses continue to face concerns about increasing energy expenses. Supporters contend that requiring stronger justification for infrastructure investments could help limit future rate increases while maintaining reliability within the electric grid.

Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.