Why is Ohio adding Utility-Scale Solar?

The bulk power system is dynamic. New generating capacity is continually added to the system to address growing electric demand, replace retiring and deactivated units, improve technology and reliability, lower ratepayer costs, and to meet increasing mandates for renewable energy by government, utilities and corporations.

Solar projects are the leading source of new supply-side generating capacity across the United States. This has been driven primarily by solar economics in the highly competitive market for wholesale power. Solar is now among the most cost-effective forms of unsubsidized utility-scale generating capacity with minimal environmental impacts relative to alternative power technologies.

American Electric Power (“AEP”), based in Columbus and among the largest of Ohio’s electric utility companies, has targeted a generation fleet with “net zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2050.”

When combined with Ohio’s attractive natural resources for siting renewable energy projects and demand from Ohio utilities and corporations for increased renewable energy supply, solar projects will be a major component of Ohio’s energy future.