I&M Seeks Proposals to Expand Green Power Production

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Fort Wayne-based Indiana Michigan Power is making plans for the utility’s future power generation as it prepares for the planned phase-out of two coal-fired generating plants in southern Indiana.

I&M is issuing a Request for Proposals for additional emission-free generation technology, such as wind and solar power, and battery storage technology.

The utility, a subsidiary of Ohio-based American Electric Power (NYSE: AEP), says it is seeking proposals for the generation of 450 megawatts of power from renewable sources.

“It is important to everyone at I&M that our transition to utilize more emission-free technology be done in a way that benefits our customers,” said Toby Thomas, I&M president and chief operating officer.  “Seeking additional emission-free technology makes sense for us, our customers and the long-term growth of our service areas in Indiana and Michigan.”

I&M says it is looking for options to replace the power currently provided by two, 1,300MW, coal-fired plants in Spencer County.

AEP-owned Rockport Unit 1 is scheduled to be retired by the end of 2028. Rockport Unit 2, which is owned by a consortium of businesses, will no longer serve I&M customers when the lease of the unit from its current owners expires at the end of 2022.

Bids are expected to be received in January 2021. The company says it wants the new power facilities to be operational by the end of 2023.