One East Kentucky Has Strong Utility Partners Supporting Economic Development Efforts

Businesses planning to expand into Eastern Kentucky can enjoy working with two high-quality utility partners who will ensure they have all the resources they need. Both Columbia Gas of Kentucky and Kentucky Power have representatives who sit on the board of One East Kentucky and are actively involved in growing the region's industries.

“We take pride in being a responsive, forward-thinking partner,” says Tyler Burke, Director of Government and Public Affairs at Columbia Gas of Kentucky. “Our team works closely with businesses to understand their specific needs and timelines, offering flexible solutions, reliable service, and competitive energy costs.”

Learn more about these two utility providers and how they support new businesses in Eastern Kentucky. Your business can save money and get up and running faster when you choose our region. 

Columbia Gas of Kentucky is Actively Investing in Infrastructure

Columbia Gas of Kentucky has a 30-county service area and continues to expand access to residents and businesses across the region. It is actively involved in economic development efforts across Eastern Kentucky while also meeting with state leaders to stay aligned with future plans.

Businesses that work with Columbia Gas of Kentucky will enjoy the utility provider’s team-based approach, as economic development cannot operate in isolation. “Maintaining strong relationships with other utility providers is critical for our region's success,” says Burke.

Columbia Gas of Kentucky is a subsidiary of NiSource, one of the nation’s largest regulated utility companies. Any business expanding to the area can enjoy the personal attention of local teams.

Kentucky Power

Businesses that need a reliable electric utility provider can choose Kentucky Power. This company is active in 20 counties in Eastern Kentucky and serves 162,000 customers. It is part of American Electric Power (AEP), which serves more than five million customers in 11 states.

“I can’t speak highly enough about Kentucky Power and how diligently they work to support companies moving to the area,” says Colby Kirk, President and CEO of One East Kentucky.

“The Kentucky Power Economic Growth Grant (K-PEGG) program they administer has helped move the needle on a number of projects and helped create meaningful jobs in this region as a result.”

The K-PEGG program provides resources for attracting new businesses, helping existing business customers expand, and assisting with developing new business and industrial real estate product, and economic development educational opportunities. It's available to businesses operating in their 20-county service area.

Eastern Kentucky is a Great Place to Invest Right Now

Businesses seeking affordable sites, a skilled workforce, and streamlined infrastructure processes should choose Eastern Kentucky. The local utility providers are excited about the growth they are seeing in the region.

“Eastern Kentucky offers a unique combination of geographic advantages, abundant natural resources, and affordable energy,” says Burke. “With a strong workforce and supportive state and local policies, the region is poised for growth.”

Burke was born and raised in Eastern Kentucky and is now raising his daughter here with his wife. He says there is a strong sense of community in the region that’s hard to find anywhere else. Burke also references Kentucky's rich history and how the coal industry shaped the region.

“That history of hard work, resilience, and sacrifice continues to inspire me, and drives me to help move Eastern Kentucky forward.” 

Meet With Economic Developers and Utility Providers in Eastern Kentucky 

Both Columbia Gas of Kentucky and Kentucky Power are invaluable partners when it comes to bringing new companies to the region. If your business is interested in Eastern Kentucky, contact our team at 606-886-7333. Kirk and the experts at One East Kentucky will be happy to set up a meeting with key utility providers at the table.  

For now, explore available sites in the region and discover properties that are ideal for your operations.