 Today marks a momentous occasion for Pike County as we celebrate AES Indiana's announcement of approximately $1.1 billion in investments from 2024 to 2026. As the Director of the Pike County Chamber of Commerce, I am thrilled to share this exciting news that will undoubtedly help shape the future of our community in remarkable ways. AES Indiana's plans include the transformation of the Petersburg Generating Station Units 3 and 4 from coal to natural gas, pending approval from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC). This transition is a testament to AES Indiana's commitment to cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions that will benefit not just our county, but the entire state. The introduction of two new projects, including the Pike County Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) and the Petersburg Energy Center, will bring 250 megawatts (MW) of solar power and 180 megawatt-hours (MWh) of battery storage to our region. This will ensure that Pike County remains at the forefront of grid reliability, flexibility, and sustainability. The impact of these projects on our community cannot be overstated. During the construction phase alone, approximately 300 jobs will be created, providing a significant boost to our local economy. Over the next 20 years, these investments are expected to generate approximately $40 million in taxes and benefits for Pike County. This is not just an investment in energy—it's an investment in our people, our businesses, and our future. Ken Zagzebski, CEO of AES Utilities, highlighted the importance of these projects, emphasizing that the economic growth in our state has long been powered by the dedicated workers at Petersburg. With these new investments, Pike County will continue to play a crucial role in Indiana's energy future, transitioning to natural gas while incorporating solar, and battery storage capacity. These projects will position Pike County as a leader in clean energy, contributing to environmental improvements and offering reliable, affordable energy solutions for residents and businesses alike. Brandi Davis-Handy AES Indiana President, also announced a $100,000 donation for the construction of the new Petersburg Community Center. This center will be a valuable resource for residents of all ages that will enrich our community and contribute to our quality of life. Many key community leaders attended and shared their gratitude for AES. Ashley Willis, Executive Director of the Pike County Economic Development Corporation, spoke passionately about the positive impact these projects will have on our local economy and quality of life. She also expressed her gratitude for investing in Pike County. Petersburg Mayor R.C. Klipsch echoed these sentiments. Mayor Klipsch also spoke about the history of the great partnership between Pike County and AES. I am optimistic for the future of Pike County.
1 Comment
6/15/2025 03:29:36 am
AES’s $1.1 billion investment marks a transformative moment for Pike County, boosting jobs, economy, and long-term regional growth.. Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. Archives
June 2025
Categories |
RSS Feed