For decades, energy has been part of the discussion for companies deciding where to relocate or expand. Today, it IS the discussion.
A recent industry survey confirms what many companies are already experiencing: power availability is now a critical factor in site selection. And it’s not just about access. Capacity, redundancy, delivery risk, reliability, and timing are all evaluated before a site even makes the shortlist.
In this environment, a site without a clear, credible path to power isn’t a risk; it’s a nonstarter. That shift is reshaping the competitive map—and it’s where Ohio is rallying to stand apart.
Building Capacity Ahead of Demand
As demand for electricity accelerates—driven by advanced manufacturing, digital infrastructure, and AI—companies are prioritizing locations that can deliver power reliably, at scale, and on schedule.
Ohio has built its strategy around that reality.
JobsOhio treats energy as a “super sector” that helps drive the growth of all others. Since 2019, the organization has secured more than 3,000 projects (representing at least $99 billion in investments, 159,000 jobs, and $9.2 billion in direct payroll). Many of these projects are still under development, with full energy demand yet to come online. This immense demand requires a grid that is robust not only today but even more so tomorrow.
Utility forecasts show that peak electricity load in Ohio could rise 50% by 2034. And Ohio isn’t waiting to respond—it’s acting now. This includes a comprehensive energy strategy designed to reduce risk and ensure long-term capacity.
Natural gas strength: The Ohio Valley is projected to supply nearly half of the nation’s natural gas by 2040, supported by billions in upstream, midstream, and downstream investment.
Nuclear leadership: Investments in uranium enrichment and next-generation reactors are strengthening baseload reliability and positioning Ohio as a nuclear innovation hub.
Increased generation capacity: Additional gas-fired and expanded nuclear projects are adding significant megawatts to the grid, ensuring large-load users can be served.
Together, these assets create a more diversified, resilient energy mix, which gives companies confidence that power will be available and scalable as their operations grow.
Certainty, Speed, and Proven Partnerships
In today’s site selection process, power isn’t just about availability—it’s about execution.
Utilities are now among the first calls companies make. Connection timelines, transmission readiness, and delivery risk can determine whether a site stays in contention. Ohio has aligned statewide policy, infrastructure, and partnerships to meet that moment.
Recent legislation in Ohio streamlines siting decisions and expands options for large users to generate their own power, creating a more predictable path from planning to operation. JobsOhio’s $100 million Energy Opportunity Initiative further encourages infrastructure, generation, and supply chain development through strategic support for vital projects.
Ohio also has a strong track record. Energy-intensive projects—from data centers to advanced manufacturing facilities—are already underway across the state, backed by the capacity and coordination required to deliver.
For site selectors, that translates to confidence. Because in today’s environment, the question isn’t simply whether power is available. It’s also whether power can be delivered on time, at scale, and without friction. Ohio understands that challenge, and is laser-focused on meeting it.
