When is clean not so clean?

As is often the case with GOP bills, SB 294 looks pretty good at a glance. After all, it promotes "clean energy resources across the state." As noted in this article from The Post, Athens, OH, those resources include nuclear and natural gas. Well, they're better than coal. But like SB 52 a few years back, SB 294 thwarts wind and solar. These are 'low capacity' sources, expressed as 34% and 23% respectively, while SB 294 sets the low limit at 50%. So 'truly clean' gets no help.

What 294 will promote, though, is building more nuclear plants (expensive, long time till ready) and more fracking, e.g. under Ohio's state parks. Save Ohio Parks has a website with clean, factual information ... in opposition. 

With the rising energy needs data centers pose, plus the shortage of gas/oil due to the Iran War, supplies will be tight, and energy prices will likely spike. Good for investors; not so good for Ohio consumers. Meanwhile, SB 294 is still stuck in committee. Stay alert if it starts to move and be ready to call/write your state senator. 

For an overview of this and other enviro issues, check out the Ohio Environmental Council's website.