INDIANAPOLIS, IN (March 24, 2026) –– The Retail Energy Advancement League (REAL) has issued the following statement in response to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission opening an investigation into energy affordability for Indiana ratepayers. The following statement can be attributed to Chris Ercoli, president and CEO of the Retail Energy Advancement League.
The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) is taking a commendable approach to conduct their own investigation in search of solutions for more affordable energy. It’s an objective set by legislators and regulators across the country. The best way to achieve that objective is by reducing infrastructure costs that are paid by ratepayers.
In Indiana’s current energy structure, ratepayers bear the risks and costs ––plus guaranteed profits for shareholders –– when utilities build new infrastructure projects, such as power plants. Indiana is in need of new power generation to be built, as electricity demand increases and outdated power plants are retired, forcing all ratepayers to pay more in their electric bills to cover those costs.
For example, one 700 megawatt natural gas plant will cost at least $800 million dollars. Indiana utilities project they will need new generation that is the equivalent of nearly two dozen natural gas plants to meet projected demand by 2035.
Indiana power bills were already increasing during the ‘flat load era,’ with minimal new power generation built. From 2008 to 2024, the price performance of Indiana’s electricity has increased 60%, ranking the state seventh worst in the country for price percentage change during that time. The cost of electricity increased 46% alone for industrial consumers during those same years, whereas similar industrial consumers in neighboring Illinois, Ohio and Michigan only saw rates increase by 15-25%. The difference in energy policies is benefiting consumers in neighboring states.
As the IURC diligently investigates energy affordability, we encourage the Commission to consider ways that relieve demand on utilities –– creating a reduction in infrastructure projects paid for by ratepayers –– and explore how to attract private investment that can support Indiana’s rapidly growing energy demand.
The Retail Energy Advancement League recommends that Indiana update policies and regulations to allow large energy users to procure their own electricity –– a buy your own power model –– to alleviate strain on utilities, limiting the need for new and costly ratepayer funded power generation.
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