Local officials are demanding more information about the widespread power outages and the subsequent recovery efforts managed by the Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO). U.S. Representative Frank Mrvan, representing Highland, announced on Monday that his team is drafting a letter requesting the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to investigate the actions of NiSource, the parent company of NIPSCO. The investigation would focus on restoration efforts and investments in a solid recovery plan.
Mrvan emphasized the role of FERC, which oversees energy monopolies and interstate commerce. He stated, “We’ll use every leverage that we have on the federal side to make sure that we are looking into and investigating what went right, what went wrong and what needs to be improved upon.”
The city of Gary is calling for a significant and continuous recovery response from NIPSCO as it copes with the effects of a prolonged power outage lasting two weeks. The city has developed a “Recovery Action Plan” and shared it with NIPSCO. Mayor Eddie Melton expressed strong dedication to improving the power situation, saying, “I pledge to continue to fight on behalf of all those who reside in Gary to turn this point in our city’s history into a time of hope and opportunity.”
NIPSCO representatives addressed the situation in communications with the Post-Tribune, describing the recent storm as “an unprecedented event that caused extraordinary damage” across their service areas. They highlighted the mobilization of numerous resources across 14 states to address the issue and confirmed cooperation with all governmental inquiries.
Mrvan instructed his team to request FERC’s investigation specifically into NiSource’s response, investments made, and plans for future vegetation maintenance. “We need to assess what NiSource’s plan was, how they invested, and prioritized resources to secure reliable power,” Mrvan explained.
Assertively, Mrvan stated his intention to utilize his position on the Energy and Water Subcommittee of the House Appropriations Committee to bring federal attention to NiSource’s actions.
Mrvan is collaborating with Gov. Mike Braun and local officials to examine NIPSCO’s response measures. Gov. Braun has requested an investigation by the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC), but Mrvan clarified that the proposed FERC investigation would differ, focusing on interstate energy transactions.
NIPSCO continues to engage with Gary and other communities affected to assess needs and share storm response details. They announced the suspension of disconnections for non-payment until the end of September and contributed $2 million towards community recovery efforts.
Addressing NIPSCO’s immediate actions, Mayor Melton acknowledged the importance of suspending non-payment disconnections and pausing collection activities, stating they were crucial first steps in the broader recovery process.
The city of Gary’s plan sets forth priorities and proposed actions to recover from the storm on August 11 and the resulting power outages. Recommendations include calls for meaningful relief, accountability from the corporation, and infrastructure investments. The leadership seeks ongoing discussions on grid reliability and improvements to emergency response protocols.
“Our path forward demands that the entire community — city officials, contractors, non-profit organizations, local residents, and the business community — work collaboratively with a resolve that lifts us to a stronger position,” stated a release from the city.