Ohio Protects Customers, Puts the Brakes on FirstEnergy’s Nuclear Bailout

(COLUMBUS) The Ohio House’s Public Utilities Committee yesterday suspended further hearings on FirstEnergy’s nuclear subsidy proposal. The Ohio-based utility has been seeking a $5.25 billion bailout for its two nuclear reactors, which have been struggling to compete in the state’s competitive electricity market. Environmental Defense Fund has long opposed subsidies for FirstEnergy’s uneconomic power plants, but has supported comprehensive packages that advance investment and innovation in a clean-energy future.

“Hats off to the Ohio House’s Public Utilities Committee for stopping the hearings on FirstEnergy’s nuclear bailout plea, the latest in a long line of attempts to force Ohioans to pay for the utility’s mistakes. The decision reflects the growing, diverse coalition that is challenging unnecessary subsidies to FirstEnergy, which would raise electricity rates and hurt the state’s economy. We hope Ohio policymakers will instead focus on spurring investment and innovation in reliable, efficient, and clean energy markets.”

• Dick Munson, Director, Midwest Clean Energy