The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) released a statement Wednesday following a recent decision by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) that is sharpening scrutiny of the utility forecasts shaping electricity prices across Ohio. Federal regulators signaled growing attention to whether early-stage load projections are being treated as guaranteed growth, a practice manufacturers warn could lock customers into billions of dollars in long-term infrastructure spending. In its ruling, FERC noted the utility faced excess capacity tied to its own procurement decisions, reinforcing broader questions about how projections linked to speculative demand are influencing market outcomes.

The debate has intensified as figures as high as 30 gigawatts of potential data center demand were cited in proceedings, even as questions grew about whether those projections reflected verified demand or tariff mechanics rather than new customer commitments. The decision adds momentum to calls for greater transparency and independent verification of large-load forecasts used in planning and market proceedings.

“When projections built on speculation start driving real prices, it’s time to ask tough questions about who benefits and who pays,” said OMA President Ryan Augsburger. 2/11/2026