State Representatives Mary Jane Cockley and Tristan Rader introduced House Bill 853 on May 15, which would mandate that decommissioning plans be submitted to the Ohio Power Siting Board and safety plans be provided to local fire departments before construction of any natural gas fuel cell facility begins.
The bill comes as communities express concerns about the health, environmental, and safety impacts of new fuel cell projects, such as one being built to power a data center in Hilliard. Lawmakers say these measures are needed to protect neighborhoods near these emerging technologies.
“Fuel cells are an emerging technology in Ohio, and we must ensure that our communities are protected as these developments progress,” said Cockley. “These safety plans are essential in ensuring our first responders are prepared should any accident occur.”
Currently, Ohio law requires solar and wind energy projects to submit decommissioning plans but does not have similar requirements for fossil fuel-based facilities. “Ohioans should be able to expect careful planning of these fossil fuel facilities, from cradle to grave,” said Rader. “Requiring decommission plans for these facilities will ensure communities aren’t left with a mess to clean up after they’re gone.”
The legislation is awaiting further consideration by the Ohio House Energy Committee. The Ohio House of Representatives comprises 99 members elected from individual legislative districts and serves residents by creating legislative measures addressing both district needs and statewide priorities, according to the official website.
