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In the Matter of the Commission’s Review to Provision of the Federal Energy Policy Act of 2005 Regarding Net Metering, Smart Metering, Demand Response, Cogeneration, and Power Production

PUCO Staff Report for Case Number 05-1500-EL-COI

In the Matter of the Commission’s Review to Provision of the Federal Energy Policy Act of 2005  Regarding Net Metering, Smart Metering, Demand Response, Cogeneration, and Power Production

Full text of staff report

On Dec. 7, 2005, Gov. Bob Taft directed the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (Commission) to explore opportunities to increase Ohio's use of alternative energy. The goal of the review was to seek out ways to lessen the burden of high energy prices on Ohioans and meet long term energy needs.

On Dec. 14, 2005, the Commission opened an investigation that invited responses to a series of questions and directed Commission Staff to conduct a series of technical conferences for all interested persons to learn more about perceived barriers to distributed generation, including interconnection requirements, stand-by charges, and other permitting requirements.

On June 28, 2006 the Commission directed its Staff to issue a report that included recommendations, for the Commission’s consideration, that would advance the state's interest in alternative energy and EPAct 2005. 

The recommendations outlined in this report address the areas of net metering, smart metering, demand response, cogeneration, and small power production, including the sale of stand-by power, interconnection, and other relevant areas. The recommendations also include the development of an advanced energy portfolio standard.  None of the recommendations outlined in this report require a law change; all of the changes recommended by Commission Staff can be accomplished under the Commission’s jurisdiction.

Please send hard copy comments in response to the Staff recommendations by Sept. 18, 2006 to:  

Public Utilities Commission of Ohio
Docketing Division
180 E. Broad St.
Columbus, OH 43215. 

It is important to include the case number 05-1500-EL-COI.