NIPSCO completes $180M gas pipeline extension in Kokomo
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Merrillville-based Northern Indiana Public Service Co. has completed the installation of nearly 19 miles of new gas line serving the Kokomo area.
NIPSCO officials said the 24-inch steel gas pipeline will provide infrastructure for the expansion of electric vehicle battery production in the area.
Two new multi-billion-dollar electric vehicle battery plants are being developed in Kokomo through a joint venture between automaker Stellantis and South Korea-based Samsung SDI.
The $180 million project also extended an additional 800 feet of 16-inch steel pipeline, added safety enhancements to the existing Walton gas regulator station and created a new customer station in Kokomo. The work, NIPSCO officials say, brought more than 250 local union and trade jobs to the area.
“NIPSCO is steadfast in the economic development sector, providing the essential energy delivery service needed to grow communities,” NIPSCO Director of Economic Development and Public Affairs Rick Calinski said in a news release. “Our team diligently works to forge positive relationships with new industries and businesses looking to build here in northern Indiana. This new gas system expansion is an example of how NIPSCO supports regional economic growth, and the successful completion of the work was possible through the support of local community leaders and stakeholders.”
NIPSCO officials say the new natural gas line will also support future economic growth in Cass, Howard and Miami counties.