NIPSCO Reaches Major Milestone in Environmental Improvement Project Technology Reduces Emissions, Maximizes Lifespan of Plant

RM-Schahfer-Generating-StationNorthern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO) recently began operating the first phase of an emissions-control system at the utility’s R.M. Schahfer Generating Station in Wheatfield, Ind.

The technology, known as a “scrubber,” is one of three installations to be completed on NIPSCO’s coal-fired generating stations by the end of 2016, an investment totaling $739 million. A second scrubber at Schahfer Generating Station is slated for completion in fall 2014. The utility expects to complete another scrubber project – at the Michigan City Generating Station – in 2016.

These investments allow NIPSCO to continue generating electricity using low-cost, reliable and efficient facilities, while improving air quality.

Similar environmental upgrades have previously been completed on NIPSCO’s other generating units. After these latest investments, NIPSCO will have among the cleanest coal fleets in the state.

The project, which began in 2011, required more than 1.7 million hours of work and employed more than 800 local craft laborers.

Improving air quality is important, and we have made substantial progress in recent years by diversifying our supply mix and investing in other environmental improvements,” said Mike Finissi, chief operating officer for NIPSCO. “We worked diligently to ensure that we completed the project safely, on time and in the most cost-effective way for our customers.

The project follows approval by the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission and a 2011 settlement with the Environmental Protection Agency and the State of Indiana under the Clean Air Act.

To learn more about these projects, or what customers and communities can do to help protect the local environment, visit www.NIPSCO.com/environment.

Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO) has served the energy needs of Northern Indiana since 1912. Headquartered in Merrillville, NIPSCO is one of the seven energy distribution companies of NiSource Inc (NYSE: NI). With more than 821,000 natural gas customers and 468,000 electric customers, NIPSCO is the largest natural gas distribution company, and the second largest electric distribution company, in the state. NiSource distribution companies serve 3.8 million natural gas and electric customers primarily in seven states. More information about NIPSCO is available at NIPSCO.com.