News Release
For Immediate Release
Contact: Shana Eiselstein
614 | 466 7750
COLUMBUS, OHIO (June 17, 2009) – The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) today modified rules that implement the alternative energy portfolio standards created by Senate Bill 221, Ohio’s electricity law, incorporate requirements for energy efficiency, long-term forecast and greenhouse gas reporting and carbon dioxide control planning. The Commission also initiated an interim process for facilities wishing to be recognized as eligible renewable energy resources.
The modifications made to the rules address issues raised by various parties following the Commission’s April 15, 2009 order that adopted the rules.
Facilities interested in seeking renewable energy resource certification may begin filing certification applications immediately under the interim process adopted today by the Commission. The Commission may grant certification on a case-by-case basis prior to the effective date of the rules. The filing instructions, certification application form and affidavits can be accessed at http://www.puco.ohio.gov/puco/forms.
On May 1, 2008, Gov. Ted Strickland signed SB 221 into law, marking the one year anniversary of the date he outlined his Energy, Jobs, and Progress Plan to stabilize electricity prices, create green jobs and increase Ohio’s use of alternative energy. The bill took effect on July 31, 2008, and the Commission immediately commenced its rulemaking process.
On Aug. 20, 2008, the Commission issued for comment PUCO staff proposed rules on the energy portfolio standards. Dozens of stakeholders filed comments with the PUCO. These diverse parties included Ohio’s electric distribution utilities, consumer and environmental advocates, alternative energy manufacturers and developers, local governments, electricity marketers, trade and business associations and industrial energy customers.
The Commission will file the rules with the Joint Committee on Agency Rule Review. The rules will take effect on the earliest date permitted by law.
The complete text of the rules is available on the PUCO Web site at www.PUCO.ohio.gov/PUCO/rules. To access a copy of today’s Commission finding and order, enter the case number 08-888-EL-ORD into the search field.
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08-888-EL-ORD