The Ohio Power Siting Board (OPSB) has given the green light for a new 200 megawatt natural gas-fired power plant in New Albany and Licking County. This facility, named the Socrates North Power Generation Facility, will operate "behind-the-meter" to support an adjacent data center's energy needs without connecting to the broader electric grid.
Governor DeWine highlighted Ohio's tradition as an energy producer, stating, "This project is a great example of how Ohio can quickly bring new generation online to serve energy-intensive industries, helping to protect consumers from increased costs." The power plant will be built and operated by Will-Power OH, LLC on a 20-acre site within the New Albany International Business Park. Sidecat, affiliated with Meta Platforms, Inc., will utilize the generated power.
The OPSB has set 30 conditions for Will-Power OH to follow during construction and operation to minimize environmental impacts. OPSB Chair Jenifer French commented on the board's adaptability: "The OPSB’s flexible process allows us to be responsive to Ohio’s energy and economic development needs."
Further details about the project can be found at OPSB's website by searching case 25-188-EL-BGN. The board has also introduced an online mapping tool showing this facility's location along with other similar projects in Ohio.
The Public Utilities Commission Of Ohio oversees the review of major utility facilities' applications in collaboration with state officials and stakeholders. Established in 1972 as the Ohio Power Siting Commission, OPSB aims to promote sound energy policies that benefit citizens while protecting environmental interests.
For more information, contact Brittany Waugaman at (614) 466-7750.
Information from this article can be found here.
