Ohio EPA awarded more than $936.5 million in low-interest or interest-free loans through three state loan programs, according to a 2017 report released Wednesday by the agency. That’s 24 percent more than in 2016.
The loans are offered at below-market or zero interest rates; some don’t need to be repaid at all. The loans issued in 2017 saved taxpayers $150 million in interest, according to the agency.