PUCO Picks in Play: DeWine to Choose Between Regulatory Veteran and Business Leader

February 7, 2025
By Miranda Morrow

COLUMBUS, OH — Last week, the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) Nominating Council conducted interviews with a slate of candidates vying for one of the most influential regulatory posts in the state — Commissioner of the PUCO.

After deliberations, the Council voted to forward two names to Governor Mike DeWine for consideration: the current Commissioner, Lawrence Friedeman, and former Greater Cleveland Partnership CEO Joe Roman. Friedeman has served on the Commission since 2017 and is known for his steady hand and industry fluency. Roman, meanwhile, brings a business-centric resume to the table, having led one of Ohio’s largest economic development organizations through multiple energy and infrastructure initiatives.

Under state law, the Governor now has 30 days to appoint one of the two candidates or reject the list entirely, prompting a new round of nominations. The choice comes at a pivotal time, as Ohio’s energy policy hangs in the balance amid growing pressures to modernize the grid, rein in utility costs, and respond to volatile market conditions driven by data center expansion and carbon reduction goals.

The PUCO holds significant influence over the direction of energy regulation in Ohio, overseeing electric, natural gas, telecommunications, and water utilities. Whomever is selected will help steer decisions on rate structures, renewable integration, and grid resiliency for years to come.

With the energy landscape in flux and legislative leaders signaling major reforms on the horizon, DeWine’s pick will send a strong signal about the administration’s priorities for utility regulation — and whether Ohio will double down on the status quo or pivot toward a new policy path.

Lawrence Friedman

Joe Roman