07/13/2021

DeWine Signs Bill Giving Commissioners ‘Kill Switch’ on Alternative Energy Programs

No such power exists for local officials for coal mines or oil and gas wells

Yesterday, Governor Mike DeWine signed legislation giving county commissioners new powers to kill wind or solar projects early in their development.

No such power exists for local officials for coal mines or oil and gas wells, which are regulated at the state level. If commissioners opt against scuttling a project entirely, Senate Bill 52 also allows them to block wind and solar developments in all or part of unincorporated areas in the county. However, citizens would have the right to canvass signatures and put the restricted development area resolution up for a popular vote.

Critics said the legislation is another handout to the fossil fuel energy industry and will chill perspective clean energy development in Ohio.

Please select this link to read the complete article from WBNS-10TV.