OPSB authorizes construction of Licking County power plant

Public Utilities Commission of Ohio sent this bulletin at 09/18/2025 02:19 PM EDT

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OPSB authorizes construction of Licking County power plant

COLUMBUS, OHIO (Sept. 18, 2025) - The Ohio Power Siting Board (OPSB) approved the construction of a 200 megawatt (MW) natural gas fired electric generation facility in the city of New Albany and Licking County. The Socrates North Power Generation Facility will operate “behind-the-meter” to serve the electric load of an adjacent data center and will not be physically connected to the electric power grid.

“Ohio has a strong history as an energy producer, using the natural resources available to us here in the state,” said Governor DeWine. “This project is a great example of how Ohio can quickly bring new generation online to serve energy-intensive industries, helping to protect consumers from increased costs.”

Will-Power OH, LLC will construct and operate the power plant on 20 acres within the New Albany International Business Park, and Sidecat, an affiliate of Meta Platforms, Inc., will consume the power. Will-Power OH must adhere to 30 conditions designed to minimize potential impacts during the construction and operation of the facility.

“The OPSB’s flexible process allows us to be responsive to Ohio’s energy and economic development needs,” stated OPSB Chair Jenifer French. “In a time of growing energy demand behind-the-meter projects like this meet a vital need.”

More information regarding the facility, including today’s opinion and order, and maps of the project area, is available online at OPSB.ohio.gov by searching case 25-188-EL-BGN. The OPSB recently created an online mapping tool that illustrates the location of the facility, as well as other approved and pending natural gas fired generation projects in Ohio.

The Ohio Power Siting Board reviews applications for the construction of major utility facilities in Ohio. Together with Ohio’s elected officials, citizen stakeholders, and the energy industry, the Board strives to build a strong and competitive foundation for Ohio’s future.

For additional information, contact: Brittany Waugaman | (614) 466-7750

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The OPSB is committed to providing access and inclusion and reasonable accommodation in its services, activities, programs, and employment opportunities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable laws. To request a reasonable accommodation due to a disability please contact Stephanie Kamer at (614) 644-9746 or stephanie.kamer@puco.ohio.gov as soon as possible.