OPSB authorizes construction of Licking County power plant

The Ohio Power Siting Board (OPSB) has approved the construction of a 200 megawatt natural gas fired electric generation facility in the city of New Albany and Licking County. The Socrates North Power Generation Facility will operate “behind-the-meter” to serve the electric load of an adjacent data center and will not be physically connected to the electric power grid.

“Ohio has a strong history as an energy producer, using the natural resources available to us here in the state,” said Governor DeWine. “This project is a great example of how Ohio can quickly bring new generation online to serve energy-intensive industries, helping to protect consumers from increased costs.”

More information about the facility is available here.

Special Reconnect Order issued for 2025-26 heating season

The PUCO has issued the Special Reconnect Order (SRO) for the upcoming winter heating season. The SRO helps Ohioans served by PUCO-regulated utilities reconnect or maintain electric and natural gas service during the winter heating season between Oct. 13, 2025, through April 15, 2026. 

Last winter heating season, more than 204,107 Ohioans used the SRO.

Under the Special Reconnect Order, customers must pay the utility no more than $175 plus any applicable reconnection charge which cannot exceed $36. 

There is no income eligibility requirement to use the Special Reconnect Order.

More information about the order and how to use it is available here.

PUCO seeks to maintain service for SOBE Thermal customers

The PUCO has issued an order asking the Ohio Attorney General to seek the appointment of a receiver for SOBE Thermal.

“SOBE’s customers deserve to have peace of mind that their vital utility services remain uninterrupted,” stated PUCO Chair Jenifer French. “The PUCO is committed to taking all appropriate steps necessary to ensure reliable utility service for downtown Youngstown.”

On Sept. 12, 2025, PUCO staff filed a letter seeking the Commission open an investigation following reports that equipment essential to SOBE’s operations was due to be repossessed for nonpayment.

Click here to read more.

Update: A Mahoning County Common Pleas Court judge granted the PUCO's request to appoint a receiver to manage SOBE Thermal Energy Systems. Read more here.

PUCO approves electricity economic development plan for Wrap-Tite

The PUCO has approved an arrangement between BDG Wrap-Tite, Inc. and Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company (CEI), allowing Wrap-Tite to take electric transmission service from a competitive electric supplier. Wrap-Tite commits to making $8 million in capital expenditures and adding 40 new full-time jobs over the next four years.

“When large manufacturing operations are able to reduce their demand during peak times, everyone benefits,” stated PUCO Chair Jenifer French. “Wrap-Tite will continue to invest not only in its Ohio facilities but also in its employees through vocational training commitments.”

More information about the plan is available here.

Fuel cell project on the horizon for Central Ohio data center

The Ohio Power Siting Board (OPSB) recently approved the construction of a 73 megawatt solid oxide fuel cell system electric generation facility in Hilliard, Ohio.

American Electric Power’s (AEP) Scioto Darby Creek Road Fuel Cell System Project will operate “behind-the-meter” to serve the electric load of an adjacent Amazon data center and will not be physically connected to the electric power grid. AEP has contracted with Bloom Energy Corporation to design the fuel cell system. Fuel cells are electrical generating equipment that use an electrochemical reaction, not combustion, of natural gas with steam and air to produce electrical power. AEP plans to start construction in January 2026 and place the facility in service around September 2027. AEP will secure delivery of natural gas from a third party.

The OPSB website features an online mapping tool that illustrates the location of this facility, as well as other approved and pending natural gas fired generation projects in Ohio.

Updated safety resources on the PUCO website

The PUCO website has been updated with electric and natural gas safety resources for Ohio Preparedness Month (OPM). 

September is officially designated OPM by the state of Ohio. OPM raises awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies such as tornadoes, flooding, and winter storms, as well as health crises or human-made events. 

Visit the new electric safety tips resource.

The updated natural gas safety resource offers tips on how to respond if you suspect a gas leak in your home as well as tips to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.