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October 24, 2024 10:00 AM – Interim Study Committee on Energy, Utilities, and Telecommunications

Summary

During the Interim Study Committee on Energy, Utilities, and Telecommunications meeting held on October 24, 2024, at 10 AM, several important topics were discussed:

Key Topics

  1. Energy Transition: The state is seeing significant shifts in energy sources, especially with coal generation decreasing from 75% in 2014 to 40% in 2023. Wind and solar energy generation have increased, with significant growth in renewable energy expected by 2026.
  2. Electricity Rate Monitoring: Indiana’s average composite electricity rates improved nationally, moving from 33rd to 28th in 2023.
  3. Renewable Energy Growth: Solar capacity is rapidly expanding, expected to surpass wind power soon. Wind currently accounts for 9.2% of Indiana’s electricity generation.
  4. Utility Infrastructure Investments: The committee discussed near $9 billion invested in utility infrastructure to improve grid reliability and energy transmission.
  5. Broadband Expansion: Indiana Broadband Office reported on grants awarded under the state broadband program, aimed at increasing internet accessibility across Indiana.
  6. Electric Grid Reliability: Concerns over grid reliability were highlighted, especially with increasing renewable energy dependence and potential future demand from manufacturing onshoring and data center projects.

Committee Actions and Votes

  • The vote was on receiving a committee report. The voting breakdown was as follows:
    • Senator Byrne: Yes
    • Senator Deary: Yes
    • Senator Ford: No
    • Senator Hall: Abstained
    • Senator Hamilton: Yes
    • Senator Hundley: Yes
    • Senator Cook: Yes
    • Senator Lysing: Yes
    • Representative Morris: Yes
    • Representative Nagle: Yes
    • Representative Pierce: Yes
    • Representative Prior: Absent during initial voting but was expected to vote later
  • The motion passed with a majority of 11 yes votes to 1 no vote

Additional Notes

  • Concern about Utility Costs: Senator Ford raised concerns about rising utility costs, especially amidst the state’s transition to renewable energy.
  • Renewable Energy Curtailment: The committee discussed grid constraints leading to renewable energy curtailment and challenges faced by utilities in managing renewable energy sources.
  • Milestone Achievement: Commissioner Zegner was recognized for becoming the longest-serving utility commissioner in the United States.
  • Energy Transition Insights: The rapid pace at which renewable energy, especially solar, is growing in Indiana, is set to shift the state’s energy landscape considerably by 2026.

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