The Ohio House of Representatives has voted in favor of a bipartisan bill that would allow community energy programs in the state, including solar energy. The legislation cleared the House Public Utilities Committee 20-0 before passing the full House with broad bipartisan support, with a final vote of 73-2 in favor of the bill.
House Bill 303 – the Community Energy Act – would allow Ohioans to subscribe to small, locally developed community energy projects and in return receive energy bill credits. These projects are privately financed, built close to where electricity is consumed, and relieve the grid during peak hours.
According to the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency, 23 states had a common policy for enabling solar energy from May 2025.
Map by DSIRE.
“Ohio families and small businesses are being squeezed by rising electricity costs, and they deserve real relief,” said Rep. Sharon Ray (R-Wadsworth), the bill’s lead sponsor. “HB 303 is a simple, market-driven solution that allows local communities to generate more of their own energy while saving money. Instead of relying on expensive out-of-state energy markets, Ohio can invest in affordable, homegrown energy built right here near our communities.”
Ohio relies heavily on imported electricity, leaving ratepayers vulnerable to volatile wholesale prices. Last summer’s PJM supply shortages resulted in energy rate increases of 10 to 36%, underscoring the need for more energy generation in the state that can be built quickly and cost-effectively.
“This bill is about putting Ohioans first – keeping energy dollars in our communities and giving people real choices,” said Rep. Jim Hoops (R-Napoleon), co-sponsor of the legislation. “Community energy projects are already lowering costs in more than 20 states. HB 303 provides the same opportunities to Ohio families, farmers, schools and small businesses who need them now more than ever.”
HB 303 also protects local control by requiring public meetings, ensuring transparency and allowing townships to limit or reject projects that do not fit their community’s character or long-term planning.
The bill now heads to the Ohio Senate.
News item from the Coalition for Community Solar Access
