Duke Energy's Economic Development Success in Ohio and Kentucky

Duke Energy, a leading utility company in the United States, has been recognized for its significant contributions to economic development in Ohio and Kentucky. The company's Site Readiness Program, launched in 2010, has resulted in over $2 billion in capital investments and 5,035 new jobs for the region, attracting companies such as Coca-Cola, Carvana, Shape Corp, and Niagara Bottling. In 2023 alone, Duke Energy's economic development efforts contributed to over $22 billion of capital investment and over 15,000 jobs across the six states it serves.

Duke Energy's Site Readiness Program identifies, evaluates, and improves high-potential business and industrial sites for economic development. In the Greater Cincinnati region, the company has selected two properties for inclusion in the 2024 program:

1. The Former Quarry Site in Harrison, Ohio: This 210-acre site has potential for up to 4 ingress/egress locations, is within 1 mile of an interchange slated for expansion, and has industrial zoning over the entire proposed development area. Mayor Ryan Grubbs expressed gratitude for Duke Energy's inclusion of the city in the 2024 Site Readiness Program, highlighting the potential for enhanced development and job creation, as well as the strengthening of partnerships with organizations like REDI Cincinnati and JobsOhio.
2. 7100 Industrial Road in Florence, Kentucky: This 329,000-square-foot manufacturing building with 54,000 square feet of contiguous office space is situated on 28 acres with easy interstate access and proximity to the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport. Mayor Dr. Julie Metzger Aubuchon highlighted the site's potential for attracting new business opportunities, bringing jobs and growth to the community.

Duke Energy's success in economic development can be attributed to its strategic partnerships with regional organizations, such as REDI Cincinnati and BE NKY Growth Partnership. These collaborations have been instrumental in attracting new businesses and supporting existing ones, positioning the Greater Cincinnati region as a premier destination for businesses.



Duke Energy's economic development efforts have not only contributed to job creation and capital investments but have also recognized local towns and individuals who consistently promote regional growth and economic development initiatives. In 2024, the company honored Boone County and Build & Elevate NKY (BE NKY) with the Partner Achievement Award and Clermont County with the Visionary Achievement Award for their contributions to economic development in the region.

Duke Energy's commitment to economic development has not only driven regional growth but has also fostered a collaborative environment between the company, local governments, and other regional stakeholders. By identifying, evaluating, and improving high-potential business and industrial sites, Duke Energy's Site Readiness Program has generated over $2.3 billion in capital investment and over 5,300 jobs since its inception. The selected sites for the 2024 program are expected to continue this trend, contributing to the region's economic growth and development.

In conclusion, Duke Energy's Site Readiness Program and economic development efforts have significantly contributed to the creation of new jobs and capital investments in Ohio and Kentucky over the past decade. The company's strategic partnerships, collaborative approach, and commitment to regional growth have positioned it as a leader in driving economic development in the Greater Cincinnati region. As Duke Energy continues to invest in and support the region, it is poised to generate even more jobs and capital investments, further solidifying its role as a key player in the region's economic success.