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Retailers Back Limits on Utility Use of Ratepayer Funds for EV Fast Charging; Utilities, Others Warn of Risks
Summary
Fuel retailers testified they will invest in fast chargers but urged the committee to limit electric utilities from using ratepayer funds to enter retail fast‑charging markets. Several transit and business witnesses warned the bill's EV provisions could create unintended consequences for infrastructure planning and ratepayers.
Representatives of convenience retailers and independent fuel businesses told the committee they support electric vehicle fast charging development in Ohio but urged clear rules that keep electric distribution utilities from using ratepayer funds to directly compete with private station operators.
Why it matters: Public policy and the budget language discussed would determine whether utilities can own or fund fast chargers (or only the make‑ready infrastructure) in certain rural or low‑market areas. Proponents argued limiting utility use of ratepayer funds protects private investment and preserves competition; opponents warned the text as drafted could lead to overbuilding, higher customer bills or could put federal funding at risk.
What speakers said: Eric McCrumb of Sheetz said the company invests in EV chargers and the legislation's language that restricts utility ratepayer funding for fast chargers would provide certainty for private investors. "This legislation does not prohibit an electric utility from owning or operating a charging station, but it does place strict limitations on their ability to use rate payer funds," McCrumb said.
Smaller fuel retailers made similar points. Steven Hightower II, COO of Hightower Petroleum, told the committee fuel retailers are prepared to invest but need a level playing field so private capital is not undercut by subsidized utility ownership.
Counterpoints and caution: John Cyriak, energy consultant for the Ohio Manufacturers Association, urged caution about utility ownership and the draft's "make ready" provisions, noting the potential for socializing infrastructure costs into rates and for overlapping grant programs. He also noted most charging currently happens at home or workplaces and that public fast chargers serve a smaller share of charging activity.
Operational detail and legislative path: Supporters noted the language mirrors provisions from Senate Bill 106 and other bills considered this session. Witnesses asked the Senate to preserve a private‑market role while ensuring rural access where the private sector might not invest without certain supports.
Next steps: The committee will weigh competing advice: protecting private investment and limiting ratepayer exposure versus using utility and public resources to ensure geographic equity in charging access. Drafts and amendments were referenced but not finalized at the hearing.
