Richmond Power & Light (RP&L) will invest $5.5 million in two new transformers for the Richmond substation, following approval by the RP&L board during its Jan. 21 meeting. The contract was awarded to Virginia Georgia Transformer for $5,543,850, the lowest bid among four competitors. The company also offered the fastest delivery, estimating 85 to 90 weeks.

RP&L General Manager Tony Foster stated that a temporary transformer will arrive in February, while the first new unit is expected in late 2026, with the second arriving by April 2027. The utility is seeking insurance reimbursement for a failed transformer, which may also be recycled for $25,000.

During the meeting, Foster introduced a green power rate proposal. The voluntary $0.006 per kWh fee would support renewable energy, with $0.005 going to Indiana Municipal Power Agency and $0.001 for RP&L's administration. At least one business customer has requested the rate addition, with more expected to follow. A resolution will be presented to formalize the change.

The board also elected Justin Burkhardt as chair and Doug Goss as vice chair for 2025.

Source: westernwaynenews.com