Supportive policies in Ohio could unleash $11 billion in renewable investment and economic growth, finds ACORE.
In a letter sent today to Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) urges opposition to House Bill 6, which would establish an unfair township referendum process that discriminates against wind development and eliminate Ohio’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS).
According to a new analysis by members of ACORE’s U.S. Partnership for Renewable Energy Finance program, these provisions in House Bill 6, in addition to overly restrictive wind setback requirements already in place, could cost the state more than $11 billion in new investment and economic activity.
“Effective and predictable long-term policy is essential to unlock the immense investment potential for renewable energy in Ohio,” ACORE President and CEO Gregory Wetstone wrote.
On behalf of its member companies, many of which invest and develop projects in Ohio, ACORE is respectfully urging Governor DeWine to:
- Drop the onerous and unfair township referendum provision, which discriminates against wind development
- Implement more reasonable wind setback requirements
- Maintain the 12.5% RPS and oppose its elimination
With a supportive policy framework, “Ohio could unleash substantial in-state investment, ensure low electric rates well into the future, and provide a cleaner environment for all Ohioans to enjoy,” Wetstone added.
The renewable energy sector currently employs nearly 10,000 Ohioans and contributes millions of dollars each year in local revenue across the Buckeye State.
Filed Under: News, Policy
