Unwind Completed!!
The “unwind” of the E.On/LG&E lease of the Big Rivers generation capacity is FINALLY complete. This incredibly complicated, incredibly confusing, and incredibly drawn out process means that Big Rivers Electric Corp. again controls in generating capacity and can “freely” supply its three customers—Kenergy (the nation’s largest co-op based on usage), Purchase Rural Electric, and Meade Rural Electric.
For economic development, it means two incredibly important developments:
1) this region’s two large aluminum smelters (Rio Tinto Alcan and Century Aluminum) now have a long-term source of affordable electricity. This broader region is home to more than 1/3 of US aluminum production so this step is incredibly important to maintaining this vital industry;
2) for prospective industry, it means this region can offer a significant supply of affordable, available electricity.