Lt. Gov. Crouch joins leaders from Duke Energy Indiana at ribbon-cutting ceremony of New Solar Power Plant

Duke energy announced that Indiana Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch joined leaders from Duke Energy, the Department of the Navy (DON) and Naval Support Activity Crane at a ribbon-cutting ceremony of the 17MW  solar power plant at NSA Crane. Other notable ceremony presenters included Melody Birmingham-Byrd (president, Duke Energy Indiana), Cmdr. Timothy A. Craddock (commanding officer, NSA Crane), and John Kliem (executive director of the DON’s Resilient Energy Program Office).

Crouch said that the solar project at Naval Support Activity Crane will serve as a catalyst for future energy infrastructure projects for the Navy, as well as bringing greater energy management to their state, spurring innovation and growth.

Melody Birmingham-Byrd said that this solar power plant helps provide our customers with a more balanced energy mix using both traditional fuel sources and renewable energy sources. They are pleased to partner with the Navy on a project that will deliver clean energy to Indiana customers, and improved energy security for the Navy.

Duke Energy built, and will own, operate and maintain the solar facility on NSA Crane. In exchange for providing secure, on-base land needed for the project, NSA Crane will receive in-kind consideration in the form of electrical infrastructure upgrades, such as a motor-operated disconnect switch, and a microgrid feasibility study to increase future base resiliency.

The project will contribute to the DON’s diverse energy portfolio, ensuring more secure and resilient operations at NSA Crane. The DON is pleased to work with Duke Energy on this project to incorporate alternative energy initiatives in the local area.

Image Source: Duke Energy