NextEra Energy Resources celebrates ribbon-cutting for Indiana’s newest energy center

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Last Updated on November 7, 2025 by Cass County Communication Network

ABOVE: NextEra Energy Resources Project Director Stephen Eastridge, Karl Eshelman, Cass County Economic Development Director Christy Householder, and NextEra Energy Resources Executive Director Zack Melda

Local officials joined leaders from NextEra Energy Resources to celebrate the start of operations at the Appleseed Energy Center. The 200-megawatt solar facility, located in Cass County, will be owned and operated by Appleseed Solar, LLC, a subsidiary of NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, one of the largest energy infrastructure companies in North America.

The completion of the Appleseed Energy Center advances Indiana’s energy infrastructure, boosts grid reliability and supports Northern Indiana Public Service Company, LLC’s (NIPSCO) plans to deliver reliable energy across northern Indiana.

  • Over its operational life, the facility is expected to contribute approximately $30 million in tax revenue to Cass County.
  • Its fixed-price power purchase agreement ensures stable energy costs, delivering long-
    term value for customers

In addition to the millions of dollars in expected tax revenue, the project supported hundreds of construction jobs and created long-term, skilled positions that will benefit the community for decades.

During the ribbon-cutting event, NextEra Energy Resources presented a $5,000 donation to the
Lewis Cass Schools in support of local initiatives.

Lewis Cass Schools Superintendent Chris Daughtry, NextEra Energy Resources Project Director Stephen Eastridge, and NextEra Energy Resources Executive Director Zack Melda

A word from NextEra Energy Resources Vice President Anthony Pedroni:
“We’re proud to be part of Indiana’s energy future and to continue our long-standing collaboration with NIPSCO. The Appleseed Energy Center is an example of our shared commitment to advancing energy independence and delivering real benefits to Hoosiers— strengthening Indiana’s energy infrastructure, supporting local communities and helping drive economic development.”

A word from NIPSCO President and Chief Operating Officer, Vince Parisis:
“We’re proud to stand alongside NextEra Energy Resources in celebrating the commissioning of Appleseed Solar in Cass County. This project is a testament to what collaboration can achieve, including economic benefits for the communities we serve. Guided by our Integrated Resource Planning process, NIPSCO remains committed to a diverse and flexible energy mix that ensures reliability, affordability and sustainability for our customers. Together with organizations like NextEra Energy Resources, we’re building a resilient energy future to benefit our customers and communities.

SOURCE: News release from NextEra Energy Resources

About NextEra Energy Resources
NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, together with its affiliated entities, (“NextEra Energy Resources”) is one of the largest energy infrastructure companies in North America. With approximately 33,410 megawatts of net generating capacity in operation, the company develops and operates a diverse portfolio that includes renewables, battery storage, natural gas and nuclear. NextEra Energy Resources also builds and operates transmission assets, provides retail energy solutions and delivers integrated energy and technology services to utilities and businesses across the United States. NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, is a subsidiary of Juno Beach, Florida-based NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE: NEE). For more information, visit: www.NextEraEnergyResources.com.

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