Why Ohio’s Controversial New Law Could Redefine America’s Clean Energy Future—and What It Means for You
Ohio’s HB 15 blocks key clean energy deals, stirring fierce debate over coal, nuclear, and the future of renewable power in the Midwest.
- HB 15 signed May 2025—roiling energy and environmental circles.
- “Base load” redefined—now covers only nonrenewable power plants like coal, gas, and nuclear.
- Bans key settlements—prohibits deals that would close or restrict these power plants.
- Coal subsidies revoked—1950s-era coal plant incentives finally eliminated.
Ohio’s energy landscape just flipped. A bold new law, House Bill 15, bars groundbreaking settlements that could speed up the closure of coal, nuclear, or gas power plants—even if those facilities are losing money or polluting the air. Signed by Governor Mike DeWine in May 2025, the law is already sending shockwaves through the state’s energy sector and across the Midwest.
The law is a direct response to years of complex negotiations between utilities, environmentalists, and regulators—a process that has helped phase out dirtier energy sources in favor of renewables. But experts warn: Ohio’s latest move might actually make it harder than ever for the state to join the national movement toward affordable, clean, and reliable power.
Want to see today’s electric power mix? Check the latest stats at the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
Q: What Does HB 15 Actually Do?
HB 15 shakes up a cornerstone of utility regulation. Traditionally, environmental groups and industrial customers have cut deals with utilities: drop your opposition to a utility’s rate hike or subsidy, and get more solar or wind—or a promise to close dirty, costly coal plants faster.
Not anymore. Under the new law, any settlement that would close or limit “base load” power plants—meaning those fired by coal, gas, or nuclear—is strictly banned. Ironically, this definition leaves out renewables like wind and solar, even if battery storage makes them highly reliable.
Q: Why Was This Law Passed Now?
The timing is no accident. In March, as lawmakers scrambled to update HB 15, powerful industry groups lobbied fiercely. The Ohio Coal Association argued for “guardrails” to keep aging coal plants alive—a plea quickly echoed by the legislature.
Meanwhile, major public corruption scandals and controversial bailouts, linked to previous energy laws like the infamous HB 6, have left Ohioans and watchdogs wary. Critics like Ashley Brown, a former utility regulator, openly question whether the new restrictions are even constitutional.
Dive deeper into Ohio’s shifting energy policy with reporting from NPR.
How Does This Impact Ohio’s Clean Energy Transition?
Environmentalists say the law handcuffs the state’s ability to negotiate for cleaner electricity. Back in 2015, a deal between the Sierra Club and American Electric Power (AEP) helped accelerate coal plant retirements and add new renewables. Those game-changing compromises just became illegal for “base load” facilities.
In fact, the state’s own rules made it nearly impossible for AEP to follow through on its clean energy promises—wind setback laws and regulatory pushback sunk planned solar and wind projects anyway. Instead of fixing these barriers, Ohio’s lawmakers are now making such deals even harder.
Read more about solar and wind innovation from SEIA and AWEA.
Q: Who Wins and Who Loses Under the New Law?
Big utilities and fossil fuel companies are likely winners. By protecting old coal and nuclear plants—even if they’re unprofitable—HB 15 could lead to higher costs for Ohio ratepayers. Supporters argue the law ensures “grid reliability” as energy needs skyrocket, but critics say it’s just a lifeline for outdated technologies.
Meanwhile, everyday Ohioans may see slower progress on cheaper, cleaner power. By excluding renewables from the “base load” club, the law also sidelines wind, solar, and battery storage as legitimate, dispatchable options.
For national perspectives on clean energy economics, visit U.S. Department of Energy.
How Can You Take Action?
The debate is far from over. Energy policy will remain a top issue in Ohio through 2025. If you care about affordable electricity and climate action, your voice matters.
Speak up. Get involved. Let your representatives know what kind of energy future you want for Ohio and the nation.
Action Checklist:
- ✔️ Stay informed with updates from Sierra Club and trusted energy news sources.
- ✔️ Review your utility’s energy mix and demand cleaner options.
- ✔️ Contact your state legislators—urge support for transparent, future-facing energy policy.
- ✔️ Share the facts—help friends and family understand the stakes for Ohio’s energy future.
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