Ohio Energy Policy Overhaul: HB 15 Set to Reshape the Landscape |
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Ohio lawmakers have approved a comprehensive energy policy overhaul under Substitute House Bill 15. The legislation is expected to be signed into law by Governor DeWine soon. The bill aims to stimulate in-state electric generation through regulatory reforms, tax incentives, and infrastructure improvements. Key components of HB 15 include: - Reducing tax assessment for new electric generation equipment put in place on or after 2027 from 24% to 7%
- Establishing a $40 million loan fund for energy efficiency and solar projects in schools
- Allowing large energy users to develop behind-the-meter generation projects
- Establishes Priority Investment Areas for brownfields and former coal mines with 5-year tax exemptions, expedited approvals, and access to $10 million in remediation grants when designated by local governments
The bill received bipartisan support as Ohio pivots toward energy self-reliance while addressing PJM Interconnection's projected shortfalls. By incentivizing new generation, reducing taxes on energy infrastructure, and streamlining project approvals, the legislation seeks to enhance reliability and stabilize rates. |
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 HB 15 is a significant shift toward market-driven energy solutions. This approach should attract increased investment in Ohio's energy infrastructure while creating a more competitive energy marketplace. Lawmakers hope these changes will position Ohio to meet its future energy needs while keeping costs manageable for consumers. |
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| AI's Energy Boom Sets Perfect Stage for Ohio's Natural Gas Industry |
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The growing electricity demand from artificial intelligence (AI) has created a golden opportunity for Ohio's natural gas sector. According to the International Energy Agency's "Energy and AI" report, AI-driven data centers are projected to dramatically increase global electricity consumption—from 361 TWh in 2023 to potentially 945 TWh by 2030, with the United States accounting for nearly half of this growth. - The report identifies natural gas as a key energy source to meet this demand, projecting an increase of 175 TWh in natural gas-fired power generation in the U.S. by 2035.
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 Ohio sits at a prime crossroads of policy and market opportunity. While other states face decade-long grid delays and red tape, H.B. 15 gives Ohio a clear edge—fast-tracking natural gas projects and energy-intensive data centers. |
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Hicks Partners Launches New Energy Siting & Outreach Services in Ohio |
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Hicks Partners has introduced new services to support energy, AI/data center, and industrial developers in Ohio, offering expertise in siting, permitting, and public engagement. With AI and industrial growth accelerating energy demand, developers need clear, expert guidance. The new services include: - Permitting & OPSB Guidance – Navigation of Ohio Power Siting Board and regulatory processes
- Stakeholder Engagement – Community outreach to build support and address concerns
- Environmental Permitting – Assistance with state and federal approvals
With deep policy experience and Ohio-based insight, Hicks Partners is positioned to help developers move complex energy projects forward quickly and effectively. |
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Overwhelming Support to Reauthorize Issue 2 Public Works Program |
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Ohio voters decisively approved Issue 2 on Tuesday, extending the state's Public Works Program for another decade with unofficial results showing more than 67% support. The measure authorizes $2.5 billion in general obligation bonds for local infrastructure projects across the state. Issue 2 increases the annual state debt cap by $50 million, bringing the total to $250 million annually for local infrastructure improvements including roads, bridges, and water systems. Since its creation in 1987, the program has funded more than 19,000 projects and supported approximately 35,000 construction jobs. |
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Early Moves Shape 2026 Governor’s Race |
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The Ohio Republican Party endorsed entrepreneur and former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy for the 2026 governor’s race last week. - The endorsement cements Ramaswamy as the fron-trunner, though Attorney General Dave Yost continues his campaign and Lt. Governor Jim Tressel considers a bid.
The early party backing signals more than just support for Vivek, who President Trump has also endorsed. It reflects the continued move toward a more populist, nationalized brand of Republican politics—a sharp contrast from the steady, institutional conservatism associated with term-limited Governor Mike DeWine. By endorsing early, party leaders may be trying to head off a divisive primary. It’s a move to consolidate resources and enthusiasm around a single, media-savvy figure with national fundraising potential. On the other side of the aisle, former U.S. Representative Tim Ryan, who ran for Senate in 2022, is eyeing the open governor's seat. Former state health director and first-time candidate, Dr. Amy Acton, is already in the race, but Ryan would enter the race as the Democrat frontrunner if he gets in. |
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 The Ohio GOP is clearly President Trump’s party. If elected, Ramaswamy would become the third outsider after JD Vance and Benie Moreno to win Ohio with the President’s backing. |
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Our Grant Alert list is updated! Review the list of ongoing grant opportunities here: |
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