As a Delaware County commissioner, I am writing to urge your engagement and action that will produce the electricity needed to facilitate continued economic development here in Delaware County and throughout all of central Ohio. Economic growth in our dynamic community has been fueled by the construction of data centers as well as by continued growth in the technology and manufacturing sectors. This growth has, in turn, driven the demand for electricity to unprecedented levels.
Unfortunately, the availability of reliable, affordable electricity is not keeping pace with the growth we are experiencing. While we need an “all of the above” renewable energy strategy that includes sources such as solar, current resources alone cannot meet the enormous power needs of the industries that are locating here. At the same time, the retirements of coal-fired power plants are causing further strain on the supply of electricity. But there is a solution: natural gas.
Natural-gas power plants would be a good, steady source of additional energy. Plus, natural gas is a plentiful resource in Ohio and in the U.S.
Natural-gas power plants can operate continuously, providing the consistent baseload of electricity that is essential for maintaining grid stability and preventing blackouts. Advancements in the generation of natural gas have also made these power plants cleaner, more efficient, and a key driver of lower emissions in the U.S.
To ensure energy independence and support economic growth, it is imperative that we focus on building a broad array of reliable, affordable electric-generation channels. Investing in domestic natural-gas electricity generation will reduce our dependence on foreign energy and ensure a secure, self-sufficient energy future.
I urge the state legislature and government leaders to prioritize the development of our state’s ability to produce more reliable electricity with the natural-gas power plants that can support our growing economy and ensure a sustainable future.
Jeff Benton
Delaware County commissioner
