Indiana Michigan Power on July 20 said it has requested approval from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission to build a 1,520 megawatt natural gas combined cycle generation facility at its Rockport, Indiana, site, to increase its generation capacity and meet the projected energy demand across Indiana.
"The project does not impact I&M’s plans to reduce rates for customers. The investment is already contemplated within I&M’s upcoming rate reduction filing and non-fuel rate freeze, reflecting a commitment to meeting future energy needs while maintaining a disciplined approach to customer costs," it said.
Power demand in I&M’s Indiana service area is expected to more than double by the early 2030s, "and Rockport’s history and location uniquely position it to play a vital role in answering the call," it said.
The Rockport energy site "has been powering homes and businesses and providing high-quality skilled jobs for more than 40 years. It offers existing infrastructure, available space and a skilled workforce, along with opportunities for multiple sources of generation."
As the Rockport coal units prepare to retire and the site evolves for other forms of generation, I&M is focused on creating opportunities for current employees and future generations of employees from the Rockport community, it said.
The new 1,520 MW facility, known as the Rockport Energy Center, is one of the largest utility construction undertakings in Indiana, expected to bring roughly 1,200 construction jobs and 30 to 40 ongoing operational roles, the company said.
The facility is expected to reduce reliance on market purchases, limiting exposure to price volatility and supporting long-term cost stability for the company and customers, I&M said.
I&M’s filing for a certificate of public convenience and necessity (CPCN) for the Rockport Energy Center details the anticipated construction timeline, allocation of construction and operational costs, regional transmission capacity and environmental factors, among other project components.
I&M anticipates a decision from the IURC on the Rockport Energy Center CPCN in early 2027. Under this timeline, construction for the project would begin in 2027, and the plant is expected to be operational in the summer of 2030.
