Medina Today

State Representatives Sharon Ray and Jim Hoops have introduced a bill to establish the Community Energy Pilot Program in Ohio. The initiative is designed to address the state's energy generation needs and aging infrastructure by implementing small-scale energy installations.

The proposed program will allow for various types of energy installations, including solar, wind, biomass, landfill gas, hydroelectric power, microturbine, natural gas, energy storage systems, or fuel cells. "Implementing this pilot program will allow us to watch and learn in a measured approach how distributed and diverse generation can help modernize and add resiliency to Ohio’s grid overall," stated Representative Ray.

Representative Hoops expressed his support for the legislation, stating that it "will play a key role in increasing energy generation and overall grid reliability."

A notable aspect of the bill is its focus on prioritizing solar infrastructure on brownfield and distressed land. This approach aims to bring new energy generation capabilities to previously used sites. Projects under this program are expected to generate up to 10 megawatts unless they are constructed on distressed sites or rooftops of commercial or public sector buildings, where they can generate up to 20 megawatts.

The bill is currently awaiting a number assignment and House committee review.