Hope Utilities to Construct Ohio Pipeline for Data Center Project

Hope Utilities, a regulated public utility, has agreed to construct a natural gas pipeline in Ohio to supply a fuel cell project developed by American Electric Power (AEP) to power a data center. The pipeline and supporting infrastructure, including interconnects with interstate pipelines, will be complete and in service by October 2026. The project aims to enhance Ohio's economic trajectory and provide meaningful economic development opportunities throughout the state.

Hope Utilities, a regulated public utility, has entered into an agreement to construct a natural gas pipeline in Ohio. This pipeline will supply a fuel cell project developed by American Electric Power (AEP) to power a data center in central Ohio. The project is expected to be completed and operational by October 2026.

Morgan O’Brien, CEO of Hope Utilities, expressed pride in the partnership with AEP, stating, "Hope Utilities is proud to be a natural gas partner on this project with AEP, one of the nation’s largest electric providers. Energy and power are key components for economic development and growth opportunities" [1].

The project is part of a broader effort to enhance Ohio's economic trajectory and provide meaningful economic development opportunities throughout the state. Northeast Ohio Natural Gas Corporation (NEO), a subsidiary of Hope Utilities, will build, operate, and maintain the pipeline and associated natural gas facilities for this project [1].

The pipeline and supporting infrastructure, including interconnects with interstate pipelines, will be complete and in service by October 2026. This infrastructure will provide the capabilities necessary to meet and exceed the customers' requirements. O’Brien noted, "Ohio is poised to benefit from investments to support data centers. Data center investments will significantly enhance the economic trajectory of Ohio and the region" [1].

In parallel, American Electric Power (AEP) has shown mixed market signals. While the stock has experienced a 3.59% price rise, technical indicators suggest a weak momentum. Analysts are split on the long-term outlook for AEP, with some citing strong quarterly results and a 2025 earnings per share outlook of $5.75 to $5.95, while others remain cautious [2].

The project underscores the growing importance of natural gas in supporting data centers, which are increasingly becoming a cornerstone of economic development. As hydrogen energy continues to gain traction, this project serves as a critical infrastructure development in the current energy landscape [3].

References:
[1] https://www.streetinsider.com/Globe+Newswire/Hope+Utilities+to+Construct+Natural+Gas+Pipeline+in+Ohio+to+Power+Data+Center+Project/25204453.html
[2] https://www.ainvest.com/news/stock-analysis-american-electric-outlook-navigating-mixed-market-signal-2508/
[3] https://www.energycentral.com/energy-biz/post/hydrogen-energy-beyond-the-hype---a-data-driven-review-of-the-next-big-lV4RAO5AIwnk7Cl