Columbus – – October 12, 2026 -- American Electric Power, acting for its subsidiary Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO), has opened a request for proposals to build, operate and maintain a natural gas pipeline lateral serving the Benton Unit 1 CCGT Natural Gas Project in Bossier Parish, Louisiana.
Gas Facilities will supply the plant's primary fuel
The scope covers the pipeline lateral and associated natural gas facilities, which the source collectively calls the "Gas Facilities." Once built, they will deliver natural gas as the primary fuel for the Benton Unit 1 combined-cycle plant.
Bidders must also offer mainline firm transportation capacity
The proposal package also seeks offers of mainline firm transportation capacity. Respondents can therefore pair physical construction and operation of the lateral with upstream capacity commitments.
Notice of intent is due June 8, with proposals due Sept. 9
Bidders must submit a notice of intent to bid by Monday, June 8, 2026. Full proposal packages are due by 5 p.m. EST on Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026, about three months later. Submissions go by email to aepfuelsrfp@aep.com.
AEP has published an RFP summary with further details on the solicitation.