Solar energy center in Indiana begins operations
AES Indiana confirmed the entry into service of the Petersburg Energy Center, a new energy infrastructure asset located in Pike County. The complex integrates 250 MW of solar generation and 180 MWh of battery storage, making it one of the most important hybrid projects in the state.
The project was developed at the site of the historic Petersburg Generating Station, which for decades supplied electricity to central Indiana. With this conversion, the company is moving forward with the modernization of its generating fleet.
The commissioning of the solar energy center in Indiana marks a milestone in the corporate energy transition strategy, reinforcing the reliability of the system in an environment of growing electricity demand.
250 MW solar and 180 MWh in batteries
The complex has more than 515,000 photovoltaic panels that provide an installed capacity of 250 MW. This volume allows covering a significant part of the regional demand in hours of maximum solar irradiation.
The storage system incorporates 180 MWh in batteries, designed to manage consumption peaks and stabilize the grid at times of high demand. The integration of solar + storage reduces the intermittency typical of renewables.
From a technical point of view, this hybrid model improves response to load variations, reduces exposure to electricity market volatility and strengthens seasonal supply security.
IRP 2022 Plan and support for MISO
The Petersburg Energy Center was identified as a strategic project within AES Indiana’s Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) 2022. Its main objective is to replace retired capacity from conventional units and maintain adequate reserve margins.
The asset contributes to meeting the capacity requirements of the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), the regional operator responsible for power system stability in multiple Midwestern states.
In terms of energy planning, the incorporation of this solar energy center in Indiana allows us to move towards a more diversified mix, where renewables and storage play a structural role in system reliability.
Economic impact and energy security
The project has direct implications for the economy of Pike County, a community historically linked to electric generation. The investment is part of a larger program to modernize critical infrastructure in the region.
The industrial and commercial sectors are the main beneficiaries, with a more stable and flexible supply. This is key for electro-intensive industries and logistics operations in central Indiana.
In addition to its technical contribution, the solar energy center in Indiana strengthens the strategic infrastructure base that supports regional economic growth and long-term energy security.
Source: https://www.aesindiana.com
Photo: Shutterstock