AES Indiana rate hike hearing reopened by regulators

INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana Gov. Mike Braun is applauding a decision by state regulators to take another look at AES Indiana’s proposed rate increase.

The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission agreed to rehear the case following concerns raised about new developments involving a proposed Google data center in Monrovia and the planned acquisition of AES by a BlackRock-led consortium.

Braun said keeping utility costs affordable for Hoosiers remains one of his top priorities.

“I am pleased the IURC agreed to rehear the AES rate hike and I applaud OUCC Abby Gray on her steadfast work on behalf of Hoosiers,” Braun said. “Affordability for Hoosiers is my number one issue and I won’t stop fighting to ease the burden of high utility costs for working families.”

The rehearing could give regulators another opportunity to consider how the Google project and AES acquisition could affect the utility’s infrastructure needs, finances and the rates customers ultimately pay.

The Citizens Action Coalition had requested the rehearing, arguing that the developments occurred after the original evidentiary record closed and could materially affect the commission’s decision on AES Indiana’s rates.

For customers, the renewed review could provide another chance for regulators to determine whether the proposed rates accurately reflect AES Indiana’s current circumstances and future costs.

“We are pleased that the Commission recognized that these developments warrant a very close look,” said CAC Program Director Ben Inskeep. “The Commission should not lock Indiana ratepayers into long-term rates based on an outdated picture of AES Indiana’s customers, investment needs, and financial circumstances.” 

AES Indiana also reacted to the decision.

“AES Indiana has received the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission’s order regarding the petition for reconsideration and rehearing of our rate case, which was approved on June 17, 2026. We respect the Commission’s process and remain committed to being open, transparent, and responsive throughout these proceedings. We continue to believe the merits of our originally approved case are strong and support the investments necessary to provide safe, reliable, and increasingly resilient electric service. Most importantly, our focus remains on serving the more than 530,000 customers who depend on us every day across Central Indiana,” said AES Indiana in a statement.

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