Indiana Michigan Power files request to acquire Oregon, Ohio natural gas plant | Local

Indiana Michigan Power wants to acquire a natural gas plant in Oregon, Ohio, but it first has to get the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission’s approval.

The American Electric Power company has asked for the state agency’s approval of a certificate of public convenience and necessity to acquire the plant. Oregon Clean Energy Center, located east of Toledo, produces 870 megawatts a year.

“I&M’s filing explains the need to acquire the facility, details about the plants and future operating plans, if approved,” a Friday news release said. “Through the (certificate of public convenience and necessity) process the IURC will ensure that the proposed plant acquisition is in the public interest and is just and reasonable.”

The company won’t release the anticipated cost because the sale has not yet closed, spokeswoman Kara Stevenson said.

I&M’s proposal is part of its Future Ready plan, which was released earlier this year. The 20-year plan includes diversifying the resources the utility uses to provide electricity.

The Fort Wayne-based company anticipates unprecedented growth in demand, the release said. The demand for power is expected to more than double in the coming years.

The company, which serves more than 600,000 customers, used about 2,800 megawatts last year. In the “2030 timeframe,” I&M expects to use more than 7,000 megawatts, the release said.

“Customers that demand large amounts of power 24/7, 365 days a year, such as data centers, account for much of the projected growth,” Stevenson said.

That includes the data center Google is building on Fort Wayne’s east side. Google’s long-term plans include 12 buildings on an 892-acre site bordered by Adams Center and Tillman roads and the railroad corridor near New Haven.

Oregon’s facility will be a stable source of power that will help meet the goal of powering current and incoming customers, the release said.

Steve Baker, I&M president and chief operating officer, said the company established in the filing the need for additional electricity.

“We believe the Oregon Clean Energy Center is an important opportunity to further diversify our current generation portfolio and position I&M for future growth,” he said in a statement. “It is our responsibility to ensure that our current and future customers have reliable and affordable power.”

I&M said it anticipates the commission will decide early next year. It also expects to file more requests as it adds additional resources to support its Future Ready plan.