Question #1

Given the recent report by the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) about the challenges in ensuring a reliable electricity supply, particularly with Indiana’s economic boom and the high energy demands of new developments like microchip manufacturing plants, AI, crypto mining, and data centers, what regulatory or legislative changes would you propose as Governor to tackle the rapid increase in energy demand and the looming energy crisis in Indiana?

Chambers: To tackle growing demand and the state’s looming energy crisis, we’ll create a strategic plan and incentivize energy technology and production innovation for all sources of power, including coal, natural gas, hydrogen, wind, solar and nuclear. To avoid continued rising costs, we will push back against EPA pressure for premature closure of Indiana’s coal-fired power plants. We’ll also work with utilities to create a credible plan for building and financing natural gas-fired power plants capable of producing at least 5 GW of new electric power over the next five years and we’ll continue to support the innovation at the Midwest Hydrogen Hub in Northwest Indiana.


Question #2

In a recent survey, 74% of Hoosiers were concerned about energy affordability. Indiana has seen a shift from having the lowest utility costs to the 32nd highest. What actions do you propose to make Indiana’s energy costs low again?

Chambers: Increasing our supply base will be critical to tackling energy costs, and as previously noted, we’ll implement a multi-pronged approach to doing that, including pushing back against EPA pressure for premature closure of Indiana’s coal-fired power plants. Additionally, we’ll appoint new commissioners to the IURC with a clear mission to push for additional base supply and lower costs, cracking down on the repetitive and unnecessary rate increases utilities have been placing on Hoosiers. We’ll also bolster the OUCC to ensure that Hoosiers have a strong and dedicated team of advocates at the table to fight for them.


Question #3

In the same recent survey of Hoosiers, 64% agreed that Indiana should prioritize utilizing plentiful local energy resources, such as coal, to maintain affordable energy prices and ensure a reliable energy supply. Yet Indiana is leading the nation in coal plant retirements, with 12 scheduled in the next few years. How can we slow down the retirement of reliable, fossil-fuel plants?

Chambers: It begins with pushing back on the EPA and their continued overreach to prematurely close coal-fired power plans. We also will develop a long-term, statewide energy plan that sets out goals to address increasing demand with diversified all-of-the-above Indiana-based power sources, which will help ensure reliability and more affordability for Hoosier ratepayers.