Energy Management

Uranium Enrichment Resumes in Ohio

Uranium enrichment has resumed in Pike County, Ohio for the first time in a generation — marking the first launch of a new U.S. enrichment plant since the 1950s. Centrus Energy Corp. is operating the federally authorized demonstration project, which is considered critical to produce the type of fuel needed for newer, more efficient nuclear reactors. Read the AP’s story. 10/16/2023

At a Glance: Transmission Rates Rising

As recently reported, there are growing concerns regarding the lack of regulatory oversight of local transmission projects — and what that means for customers, who pay for the projects.

The OMA’s energy engineering consultant, RunnerStone LLC, produced this graph showing that Ohio utilities continue to pour hundreds of millions of dollars into supplemental transmission projects. This spending receives little regulatory attention from the PUCO, PJM, or FERC, and the projects are often approved with no quantifiable reliability improvements.

Meanwhile, in January 2024, AES Ohio’s transmission rates are expected to double compared to current rates. 10/11/2023

On-Demand Webinar: Winter Market Outlook

Concerned about winter energy expenses? OMA Connections Partner NRG has published this on-demand webinar, which provides a winter weather outlook; current and forward gas pricing and purchasing strategies; and strategies for contracts and product customization. 10/10/2023

CISA: China Is Top Cyber Threat to U.S. Utilities

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency says China has become the United States’ top nation-state cyber adversary — and is actively targeting critical infrastructure. According to Utility Dive, China-linked actors have engaged in activity that could threaten the electric grid, as well as oil and gas pipelines. 10/9/2023

Ohio’s New Combined-Cycle Power Plants

OMA general counsel Bricker Graydon has published this graphic, which shows the locations of Ohio’s newest combined-cycle natural gas energy centers — capable of supplying more than 6,600 megawatts of power. Meanwhile, more projects are in the pipeline.

This progress underscores that competitive markets are working to attract new energy investment while replacing shuttered generation. The OMA continues to advocate for policies and regulations that preserve and enhance these markets. 10/12/2023

Watchdog: Ohio Needs More Oversight of Transmission Projects

The Ohio Consumers’ Counsel, which represents residential ratepayers, says local transmission projects lack regulatory oversight and should be reviewed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

Utility Dive reports that the OCC’s complaint is tied to electric utilities’ nearly $6.5 billion in PJM Interconnection-approved “supplemental projects” since 2017. The projects have been OK’d without any oversight of their need, prudence, or cost-effectiveness, the OCC says — adding that PJM assumes the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio reviews the projects, but it doesn’t. 10/4/2023

Ohio Bill Would Ban Local EV Mandates

The Ohio House is considering legislation to bar local governments from restricting the use or sale of gasoline- or diesel-powered motor vehicles.

House Bill 201, which awaits debate by the full House, would also prohibit state agencies from adopting motor vehicle energy standards established by California, which is banning the sale of new gasoline-powered vehicles starting in 2035. This Gongwer News Service article highlights arguments made for and against HB 201.

Meanwhile, at the federal level, U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance (R-OH) has introduced legislation to end more than $100 million in EV incentives and redirect them to gas- or diesel-powered autos built in the U.S. 10/4/2023

Ohio May Land One of Nation’s Largest Solar Projects

The National Public Radio Network recently aired a discussion on the proposed Oak Run Solar Project in Madison County. If approved, the solar farm would be one of the largest solar farms in the U.S. and would test the dual use of land for solar panels and agriculture. 10/3/2023

Panel Discusses Path for Ohio’s EV Transition

A meeting was held Sept. 25 in Columbus to discuss Ohio’s planned distribution of $140 million through the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program. Read Gongwer News Service’s story.

State officials recently announced the initial $18 million award to install 27 EV charging stations along interstate corridors. 9/27/2023

Federal Bill Would Impose $1,000 Fee on EVs

On Capitol Hill, legislation has been introduced in the U.S. Senate to impose a federal fee on electric vehicle sales to boost revenues for the Highway Trust Fund.

The bill, offered by U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer (R-NE), would mandate a $1,000 fee on EVs at the point of sale and a $550 fee on batteries that are more than 1,000 pounds at the point of manufacture, reports say. 9/28/2023