Hope Utilities to Build Ohio Gas Pipeline for Data Center Project

Hope Utilities will build a new natural gas pipeline in Ohio to power an AEP fuel cell project for a data center, with operations set to begin by October 2026.

(P&GJ) — Hope Utilities will construct a natural gas pipeline in central Ohio to supply a fuel cell project being developed by American Electric Power for a new data center, the company said on Aug. 14.

The work will be handled by its local subsidiary, Northeast Ohio Natural Gas Corporation (NEO), which will build, operate, and maintain the pipeline and related facilities.

“Hope Utilities is proud to be a natural gas partner on this project with AEP, one of the nation’s largest electric providers,” said Morgan O’Brien, Hope Utilities CEO. “Energy and power are key components for economic development and growth opportunities. Data center developers will build these facilities in locations that have the reliable and affordable energy resources they need. Hope Utilities and NEO are ready to deliver the natural gas expertise, infrastructure and resources necessary to move these important projects forward.”

The pipeline, which will connect with interstate pipelines, is scheduled to be in service by October 2026. Once completed, it will have the capacity to exceed the project’s fuel requirements.

“Ohio is poised to benefit from investments to support data centers,” O’Brien said. “Data center investments will significantly enhance the economic trajectory of Ohio and the region. Hope is committed to adding to those investments through infrastructure upgrades and other community investments. This pipeline investment is just the start of Hope Utilities and NEO’s support of these projects to provide meaningful economic development opportunities throughout Ohio.”