Energy Permitting in Ohio:
A Process Analysis
Unlocking Ohio's Economic Potential by Streamlining Energy Infrastructure
Powering Ohio’s Future Requires Fixing the
Process Today.
A study from the Ohio Chamber of Commerce Research Foundation reveals how regulatory bottlenecks are costing our state $440 million in lost investment annually—and how we can fix it.
About the Study
Ohio is experiencing a once-in-a-generation economic boom. From massive data center expansions to the re-shoring of advanced manufacturing, the world is looking to the Buckeye State. But these industries have one non-negotiable requirement: reliable, abundant energy.
Currently, our energy permitting system—designed to balance development with community safety—has evolved into an unintentional bottleneck. While statutory deadlines call for decisions in 150 days, the reality is often an 18-month wait.
In Energy Permitting in Ohio: A Process Analysis, the Ohio Chamber Research Foundation maps the current regulatory landscape, identifies the specific "choke points" stalling progress, and offers data-driven recommendations to modernize our approach without sacrificing public input.
Key Findings: The Cost of Delay
Our research found that when projects stall in the regulatory queue, the costs to Ohio's economy are measurable and significant:
● $440 Million in capital investment is lost every year due to projects withdrawing from the queue.
● 5,400 Jobs are forfeited annually, including 2,600 high-paying construction roles.
● 9,000 Megawatts of potential power generation have been withdrawn since 2016.
● $3.2 - $4.3 Million in state income tax revenue is lost annually.
"We must move into a space where we can innovate and approve projects with the speed and efficiency required by the modern economy. Our goal is not to bypass necessary safeguards, but to ensure that our regulatory framework functions as a gateway to opportunity rather than a barrier to entry."
— Steve Stivers, President & CEO, Ohio Chamber of Commerce
Recommendations for Reform
To secure Ohio's status as an energy-dominant state, this study recommends three critical reforms:
1. Enforce Statutory Timelines
Currently, the "reasonable time" provision for post-hearing decisions allows cases to drift for months. We recommend establishing strict statutory upper limits for decision-making to close the gap between the 150-day goal and the 18-month reality.
2. Expand Accelerated Reviews
Many low-impact projects, such as those sited on existing industrial land, still undergo the full standard review. Expanding eligibility for the accelerated application process would free up regulatory resources for more complex cases while speeding up low-risk investment.
3. Modernize Community Engagement
Delays often stem from late-stage community opposition. By updating public notice requirements to utilize modern technology and social platforms, we can ensure communities are informed earlier, fostering transparency and reducing friction later in the process.
Ready to dive deeper?
Read the full analysis of the bottlenecks, the economic impact, and the path forward for Ohio's
energy sector.
Download the Full Report Hereenergy sector.
Questions?
For questions about this research or media inquiries, contact:
Ohio Chamber of Commerce Research Foundation, Email: research@ohiochamber.com