Four Paths to Ohio’s Energy Future: Modeling Options for Meeting Electric Power needs in 2030

Posted by Reports on Sep 19, 2016 2:16:00 PM

Publish Date: September 19, 2016

As the energy landscape evolves in Ohio, AEE Institute commissioned a study to provide a data-driven, least-cost approach to achieving the state’s growing energy needs and ensuring reliability.

“Four Paths to Ohio’s Energy Future - Modeling Options for Meeting Electric Power needs in 2030” presents the results of four specific scenarios that are representative of multiple runs utilizing AEE Institute’s modeling tool for assessing least cost options for meeting Ohio’s electricity needs. The report projects customer rate impacts of the following four scenarios, all through 2030:

  • A “business-as-usual” approach that does not incorporate any investments in energy efficiency or renewable energy;

  • An approach incorporating all the renewable energy development that would be competitive in the market, but no energy efficiency;

  • A scenario incorporating all the available energy efficiency investment that is competitive in the market, but no renewable energy; and 

  • An option incorporating both renewable energy and energy efficiency investments that are competitive in the market.

For each scenario, the model identifies the combination of generation sources, efficiency improvements, and other measures that represent the lowest cost means of meeting Ohio’s energy needs. The model also factors in assumptions based on the current and future price of natural gas, current policy barriers stalling investments in advanced energy, pending federal regulations with which the state may need to comply, and the retirement of aging coal facilities. 

Advanced Energy Economy Institute would like to acknowledge the work of the University of Michigan and 5 Lakes Energy and support of the Energy Foundation.

Please complete the form to download the report and Ohio's electricity model.

Topics: State Policy