Duke Energy has chosen two properties in Connersville and Westfield, Indiana, for its 2025 Site Readiness Program. The initiative aims to prepare industrial sites for economic development and market them to companies seeking new locations.
Stan Pinegar, president of Duke Energy Indiana, stated, “Our economic development efforts have long been a key component of our work to power the vitality of our customers and communities. For more than a decade, we have partnered with local economic development organizations through our Site Readiness Program to help them stay competitive and market their sites and communities to prospective companies. It’s been a collaborative effort and instrumental tool to bring major economic development wins to the communities we serve – resulting in job creation, new tax dollars and investment.”
Since 2013, Duke Energy has prepared 51 properties through this program. These sites have attracted 30 major projects that brought over 10,000 jobs and $14.7 billion in capital investment across Indiana.
The company collaborates with Banning Engineering and Site Selection Group to assess potential sites before working with local officials on marketing strategies. Each selected site receives $10,000 from Duke Energy for preparation costs.
The two locations included in the 2025 program are:
– The 100 Acre Industrial Site in Connersville is made up of three parcels near the former Visteon manufacturing plant. The property offers accessible utilities and proximity to rail service.
– NorthPoint II in Westfield is a greenfield site spanning more than 169 acres next to NorthPoint Business Park. It is designed for large-scale industrial or corporate projects with access to major transportation routes.
Brad Colter, CEO/President of the Economic Development Group of Fayette County, said, “This partnership will allow us to take a key step forward in preparing and marketing the site for future industrial use. We appreciate Duke Energy’s investment in our region and the proactive approach the company is taking to help ensure the communities it serves are positioned for long-term economic success.”
Jenell Fairman, economic development director for Westfield, added, ”NorthPoint II is an opportunity for companies to establish themselves within one of the region’s fastest-growing communities. The state-of-the-art industrial park sits directly east of the U.S. 31 corridor and offers seamless access to I-465.
From assisting in site development to aiding in the recruitment of new investment projects, we’re grateful for Duke Energy’s support and collaboration to attract businesses to NorthPoint II and the city of Westfield.”
Duke Energy has received national recognition from Site Selection magazine as one of the top utilities supporting economic growth efforts. In 2024 alone, its activities helped generate $7 billion in capital investment supporting more than 2,800 jobs statewide.
Duke Energy Indiana provides electric service across a large portion of Indiana as part of parent company Duke Energy’s operations throughout several states.
More information about Duke Energy can be found at duke-energy.com or through its social media channels.
