Vectren abandons coal gasification project

Saying its need for electricity can be filled in other ways, Evansville-based Vectren Corp. announced yesterday that it will not go forward with a southwestern Indiana coal gasification project it planned with Duke Energy Corp.

Vectren instead will turn to buying power, according to the Evansville Courier & Press. The company also will rely more on natural gas peaking generation, renewable resources and persuading customers to conserve.

The $2 billion, 630 megawatt plant, which is to be built near Edwardsport, was expected to cost Vectren $400 million. Vectren would have had an option to own 20 percent of the project, which would replace a Duke plant at the site.