To amend section 4928.01 and to enact sections 4928.74, 4928.741, and 4928.742 of the Revised Code regarding portable solar generation devices.
Summary
SB383 would create a new category in Ohio law for “portable solar generation devices,” defined as movable photovoltaic devices with a maximum output of 1,200 watts that plug into a standard 120-volt outlet, are intended to offset a customer’s electricity use, and are certified by UL or an equivalent testing laboratory. The bill also amends the state’s electric utility law definitions to expressly state that these devices are not “net metering systems.”
The bill then exempts portable solar generation devices from Chapter 4928 interconnection requirements and from any requirement to enter into an interconnection agreement with an electric utility. It further prohibits electric utilities from requiring prior approval, charging fees or charges related to the device or small amounts of electricity fed back to the grid, or requiring additional controls or equipment beyond what is built into the device. The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio would be directed to adopt rules to implement these provisions.
Impact
SB383 would modify Ohio’s electric utility regulatory framework by carving out a specific exemption for plug-in, portable solar devices from utility interconnection rules and agreements. It would also amend the statutory definition of net metering to exclude these devices, which could affect how utilities, regulators, and customers classify and manage small-scale distributed solar generation. The practical effect would be to reduce regulatory barriers for consumers using these devices and limit utility discretion over their installation and operation.
Sentiment
The available context shows no recorded committee testimony or floor votes, so there is no documented public debate in the materials provided. Based on the bill’s structure and sponsors, the measure appears to be a pro-consumer, pro-solar proposal aimed at simplifying access to small-scale renewable energy devices. The absence of recorded opposition or amendments in the provided history means the overall sentiment cannot be measured from votes, but the bill’s text suggests a favorable posture toward distributed solar adoption.
Contention
The main point of potential contention is the extent to which utilities should be allowed to regulate plug-in solar devices that connect through standard outlets and may export small amounts of power to the grid. Utilities may be concerned about safety, grid impacts, and the loss of review or fee authority, while supporters are likely to argue that the devices are low-risk, standardized, and should not face the same barriers as larger rooftop solar systems. Another possible issue is the bill’s explicit exclusion of these devices from net metering, which may matter for how any exported electricity is treated under utility programs and billing rules.
To amend sections 3517.12, 3517.13, and 3517.155 of the Revised Code to modify the Campaign Finance Law regarding foreign nationals and statewide initiatives and referenda and to declare an emergency.
To amend sections 3517.12, 3517.13, and 3517.155 of the Revised Code to modify the Campaign Finance Law regarding foreign nationals and statewide initiatives and referenda and to declare an emergency.
To amend sections 3505.01 and 3505.10 of the Revised Code to modify the deadline for a political party to certify its nominees for President and Vice-President to the Secretary of State.
To delay the deadline for a major political party to certify its presidential and vice presidential candidates to the Secretary of State for the 2024 general election.