PIKE CO., Ind. (WFIE) – AES Indiana, joined by Pike County leaders, announced $1.1 billion in investments Thursday.
They include the repowering of Petersburg Generating Station Units 3 and 4 from coal to natural gas, pending approval from the IURC, and the addition of two new projects, including solar and battery storage.
Officials say the Pike County Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) and the Petersburg Energy Center will add 250 megawatts (MW) of solar and 180, megawatt-hours (MWh) of battery storage to AES Indiana’s portfolio.
The projects are expected to create approximately 300 jobs during construction and generate approximately $40 million in taxes and benefits for Pike County over the next 20 years.
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“These investments demonstrate our continued commitment to Pike County and leading the energy transition here in Indiana in a way that maintains affordability and reliability for our customers,” said Ken Zagzebski, CEO of AES Indiana. “The economic growth across the state has been powered by our people at Petersburg for more than 50 years and will continue to play a significant role in Indiana’s economic future.”
The natural gas conversion at Petersburg Generating Station is expected to be finished by the end of 2026.
It will make AES Indiana the first utility in Indiana out of coal.
The Petersburg Energy Center, a 250 MW solar and 180 MWh energy storage facility, is currently under construction.
This project is expected to be operational by the end of 2025.
“AES Indiana is a trusted local partner and leader in advancing clean energy,” said Petersburg Mayor R.C. Klipsch. “Our community is supportive of AES Indiana’s diverse energy projects which contribute to our local economic growth and improve environmental impact. With their planned investments of approximately $1.1 billion in Petersburg and Pike County from 2024 to 2026, AES Indiana continues to be a partner-of-choice by strengthening its commitment to our city and local workforce.”
AES Indiana also announced a $100,000 donation to the City of Petersburg to support the construction of the new Petersburg Community Center in downtown Petersburg.
The new multi-purpose facility will offer a variety of programs and services for residents of all ages, including recreation, health, education, and social activities.
The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
“The Petersburg Community Center will be an asset to the county and provide a sense of placemaking and pride in the community and spur population retention and population growth as a beautiful quality-of-life amenity,” said Ashley Willis, Executive Director, Pike County Economic Development Corporation. “We are incredibly grateful to AES Indiana for their partnership and continued support of Petersburg.”
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