Electricity in Ohio

Of the 117 electric providers in Ohio, 25.64% of them report that they offer net metering. Regulations put in place at the state level are restricted for consumers interested in installing solar or other alternative electricity generation sources.

There are 35 electricity companies in Ohio that reported energy loss, including AEP Ohio, Ohio Edison, and AES Ohio. Together, these 35 companies average an annual energy loss of 2.74% of electricity generated. The US average is 2.76%, resulting in Ohio having a rank of 19th best in the country for energy loss efficiency.

When it comes to stimulating personal solar, tax and rebate incentives from the government are some of the easiest methods. Ohio currently does not offer a state tax credit for solar panel installation at a private residence. There are currently no state sponsored rebates available to consumers who are purchasing solar panels. Unfortunately, residents in the state are only offered some optional tax exemptions for what they spend on solar panel installation. There is currently a 100% sales tax exemption in place for the purchase of solar.

Whether a consumer is able to easily purchase electricity options with renewable fuel types is at least partially determined by statewide initiatives. Many states require renewable fuel types to make up a portion of the fuel used for electricity generation by providers in the state. These stipulations are referred to as Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS). Sadly, Ohio only has limited or optional standards plan in place. Additionally, there are currently no low income solar programs to assist low income families to install solar panels.