Americans are saying the quiet part out loud. They do not trust the utility playbook. A new national poll shows customers want tougher oversight as utilities seek billions in new rate increases and prepare customers for even more spending tied to data centers, transmission and grid buildout.

Ohio policymakers should take the warning seriously. At a time when electric bills are already rising, monopoly utilities should not be allowed to turn speculative forecasts into automatic customer costs. Every forecast, rate request and infrastructure plan should face real scrutiny before captive ratepayers are forced to pay. Growth matters, but so does discipline. If utilities want customers to fund new spending, they should have to prove the need, show the benefits and accept accountability when projections do not materialize.

“Customers do not need more utility sales pitches dressed up as planning,” said Lindsey Short, managing director of energy and advocacy services for the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association. “They need regulators and policymakers willing to ask hard questions before another dollar is added to their bills.” 5/26/2026