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Ohio Lawmakers Take Up Wind, Solar Energy Rule
By: Associated Press
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Battle lines are being drawn over whether Ohio should scrap its requirement that power companies generate a portion of their electricity from renewable sources such as solar and wind.
In hearings last week, Ohio Senate Public Utilities Chairman Bill Seitz reopened discussions on the 2008 state law that requires renewable sources to account for 12.5 percent of the power utilities produce.
Opponents of the mandate say it fattens electric bills at a time when shale gas drilling is bringing new supplies of a traditional energy source.
Supporters say it's helping the environment and the state's economy with new jobs in science, technology and production.
Debate comes as Ohio electricity prices are higher than in some surrounding states.