New Energy Bill Signed into Law, Marks Bold New Era for Overdue Energy Policy in Ohio

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Tristan Rader (D-Lakewood) today announced that House Bill (HB) 15 has been signed by Governor Mike DeWine, marking the beginning of a bold new era for energy policy in Ohio and finally repeals OVEC fees established in the infamous HB 6 scandal.

“We’re turning the page on corruption and turning up the power on clean energy,” said Rep. Rader. “HB 15 is a big win—but it’s only the beginning.”

HB 15 finally buries the last corrupt remnants of HB 6, the infamous bailout law that funneled over a billion dollars to failing coal plants and became a national symbol of pay-to-play politics. With this new law, Ohioans are expected to save over $1B by eliminating utility surcharges for legacy coal generation and ending ratepayer-funded corporate handouts.

But this isn’t just a repeal—it’s a reinvestment. HB 15 creates a new solar energy loan fund for public schools, empowering districts to install solar panels and reduce energy costs long-term. Schools can now apply for low-interest loans (just 2%) to finance solar and energy efficiency upgrades, turning taxpayer dollars into real savings and cleaner air for our kids.

The legislation overhauls utility regulation, bans utilities from owning power plants, strengthens consumer protections, and requires transparent grid capacity maps to improve local solar development. It also mandates real refunds if utilities overcharge customers and ends backroom utility settlements that bypass public oversight.

Still, advocates caution that the work isn’t done.

“Ohio still lacks a community solar program. We still ban most people from pooling their resources to go solar,” added Rep. Rader. “HB 15 is a foundation. Now we need to build the future—one that’s democratic, renewable, and owned by the people, not monopolies.”

HB 15 shows what’s possible when we fight for people over profits. It proves that Ohio can lead on clean energy—and that the sun is rising on a better, more transparent energy future.