KPSC approves utilities’ requests to add new generation
Louisville Gas and Electric Company and Kentucky Utilities Company received approval October 28 from the Kentucky Public Service Commission (KPSC) to add new generation that will support LG&E and KU’s ability to continue serving customers safely and reliably, while keeping pace with Kentucky’s record-breaking economic development needs.
In its order, the KPSC granted LG&E and KU, subsidiaries of PPL Corporation (NYSE:PPL), the authority to construct two new, highly efficient 645-megawatt natural gas combined-cycle units, Mill Creek 6 and Brown 12, and upgrade environmental technologies for Unit 2 at Ghent Generating Station by installing a selective catalytic reduction facility.
“This is an exciting time for Kentucky as the interest in locating new and expanding businesses continues to grow,” said John R. Crockett III, LG&E and KU President. “These generation projects help ensure we continue to safely and reliably serve all customers and new economic development growth in the lowest reasonable cost manner.”
Unprecedented economic growth in the commonwealth prompted LG&E and KU to request approval on February 28 for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) from the Commission for the two natural gas combined-cycle units, the upgraded environmental controls on Ghent Unit 2 and the installation of more battery storage.
The utilities then reached on July 29 a stipulation agreement with key intervening parties to the case. The agreement supported a majority of the generation projects initially proposed but withdrew the proposed battery storage project, with the right to file a future CPCN if necessary, and extended the operation of the Mill Creek 2 coal unit beyond its previously planned 2027 retirement date until Mill Creek 6 is in-service in 2031.
The stipulation agreement was reached with the Attorney General of the Commonwealth of Kentucky; Kentucky Industrial Utility Customers, Inc., Southern Renewable Energy Association and the Kentucky Coal Association, Inc.
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