Ohio Lawmaker Calls for Local Hearings on $10.7 Billion AES Ohio Sale
Ohio state Representative Tristan Rader is urging the Public Utility Commission of Ohio (PUCO) to conduct local hearings before approving a $10.7 billion deal for AES Ohio, the electric utility serving Dayton. The proposed acquisition would transfer AES Ohio from…
Columbus, OH, August 19, 2026 —
State Representative Tristan Rader is advocating for local public hearings before the Public Utility Commission of Ohio (PUCO) makes a decision on the proposed $10.7 billion sale of AES Ohio, the electric utility that serves the Dayton area.
The proposed transaction involves the transfer of AES Ohio from its current public ownership to a private consortium. This consortium includes a sovereign wealth fund from Qatar, California’s public employee pension program, a private equity firm based in Sweden, and Global Infrastructure Partners.
Representative Rader, along with other concerned parties such as the city of Dayton, has voiced apprehension regarding the potential ramifications of this sale. Concerns cited include the possibility of conflicts of interest arising from the diverse ownership structure, a reduction in transparency in the utility’s operations, and the potential long-term effects on local employment and electricity rates for consumers.
Despite these concerns, assurances have been provided by the prospective buyers. Additionally, a preliminary review by PUCO staff has suggested that the proposed acquisition is suitable.
The PUCO has established a deadline for public comments regarding the proposed purchase. The outcome of the commission’s review and the potential for local hearings remain points of focus for Rader and other stakeholders.
Story summarized from the original created by Nick Evans on ohiocapitaljournal.com, see more information here.
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