No person shall commence to construct a major utility facility in this state without first having obtained a certificate for the facility. The replacement of an existing facility with a like facility, as determined by the power siting board, shall not constitute construction of a major utility facility. Such replacement of a like facility is not exempt from any other requirements of state or local laws or regulations. Any facility, with respect to which such a certificate is required, shall thereafter be constructed, operated, and maintained in conformity with such certificate and any terms, conditions, and modifications contained therein. A certificate may only be issued pursuant to Chapter 4906. of the Revised Code.
A certificate may be transferred, subject to the approval of the board, to a person who agrees to comply with the terms, conditions, and modifications contained therein.
R.C. § 4906.04