A new Toledo Blade editorial puts a spotlight on one of the biggest problems in Ohio utility regulation. Too often, utility forecasts are treated like facts, and customers are left paying the price.

The editorial board pointed to Public Utilities Commission of Ohio acceptance of utility demand forecasts as a prime example of how overly friendly regulation can pad utility profits while leaving customers exposed. That is exactly the risk OMA has warned about as utilities seek to turn speculative data center projections into generation, transmission and capacity costs paid by manufacturers, families and small businesses.

There is a better way. The bipartisan Electricity Forecast Integrity Act, sponsored by Sen. Paula Hicks-Hudson, D-Toledo, and Sen. Mark Romanchuk, R-Ontario, would require independent review before utility forecasts are used to justify costs that can show up in Ohioans’ electric bills.

“Utility forecasts should not become customer bills just because a monopoly utility says so,” said Lindsey Short, OMA managing director of energy and advocacy services. “The Electricity Forecast Integrity Act is a better way because it requires utilities to show their work before manufacturers, families and small businesses are asked to pay.”

OMA supports transparent, independent review of utility forecasts, verified demand and clear cost responsibility. Forecasts should be tested before they become customer costs. 6/22/2026