The Buckeye Institute recently presented its views on Ohio Senate Bill 2 to the Ohio Senate Energy Committee. The bill, similar to Ohio House Bill 15, aims to implement energy policies that reduce bureaucratic hurdles and ensure power supply meets growing demands.
Greg R. Lawson, a research fellow at The Buckeye Institute, expressed support for the bill’s alignment with recommendations from both The Buckeye Institute and Americans for Prosperity-Ohio. Lawson proposed additional measures for consideration, such as allowing energy generators to collaborate directly with large electricity users and streamlining state permitting processes.
Lawson noted the rapid increase in electricity demand due to advancements in technology like artificial intelligence and electric vehicles. He emphasized that “energy supply should rise with demand” but criticized current government policies for limiting less expensive energy sources in favor of more costly green energies.
The testimony highlighted the need for reliable and affordable energy policies, suggesting that existing subsidies distort markets and hinder competition. Lawson stated, “subsidies come from taxpayers,” arguing against their continuation.
Senate Bill 2 proposes several changes including eliminating subsidies, improving the Power Siting Board process, and promoting competition among energy providers. Lawson also suggested that developers should have access to information about geographic areas needing more electricity generation or transmission.
The Buckeye Institute advocates for efficient permitting processes at federal, state, and local levels to expedite power plant construction. Additionally, environmental policies should encourage voluntary clean practices without coercion.
Lawson concluded by emphasizing the importance of abundant energy for economic prosperity: “Businesses of every type and in every sector need energy to operate.”
Senate Bill 2 aims to address these concerns by implementing policies that ensure reliable baseload energy development while fostering competition within the market.
