Senate Energy Committee Hears Wind and Solar Referendum Bill

In the Ohio Senate Energy and Public Utilities Committee this week, dozens of witnesses testified for and against Senate Bill 52, which addresses the siting of large-scale solar and wind projects. The substitute bill mirrors its House companion (House Bill 118) and allows township trustees to adopt a resolution that designates portions of a township as an “energy development district.” These districts — if approved by voters — would be available for large wind and solar projects.

Opponents of the legislation say it would stifle renewable energy development in Ohio. The OMA provided opponent testimony on the original bill and is working with allies to find a solution to ensure local citizens have a meaningful opportunity to engage at the Ohio Power Siting Board. 5/20/2021