Hey Siri, Modernize Our Grid
Asim Haque is the chairman of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO). PowerForward is the PUCO’s review of the latest in technological and regulatory innovation that could serve to enhance the consumer electricity experience. More information regarding PowerForward is available at www.PUCO.ohio.gov.
Ohio is at the intersection of America, both literally and figuratively. Our industrial sectors run the gamut from agriculture, to world-class healthcare, to manufacturing. It is often said Ohio is a test market for industries due to its size, demographics and geographic location.
It was no surprise when Ohio was one of the first venues for the power plant compensation debate happening across the country. Ohio started that conversation in 2013, and we’ve already turned the page.
It’s clear to me, particularly in a restructured state like Ohio, that it is time for state commissions to change the focus, and we’re already seeing it happen. Across the country, commissions are taking the lead to chart grid modernization policy, and for good reason.
The electric industry is on the cusp of a revolution.
First, utilities and other service companies are looking for ways to innovate. As regulators, we know this because they are asking us to approve grid modernization projects through individual filings. This industry hasn’t innovated for over a century, and there is so much opportunity for change.