Article

The state of Ohio has approved a 73-megawatt natural gas fuel cell power plant in Hilliard, intended to support Amazon Web Services' data centers. The facility is projected to emit between 1.19 million and 1.46 million pounds of CO₂ daily.

Local residents, concerned about air quality and safety, argue the emissions are equivalent to those of approximately 66,000 cars. Despite calls for carbon capture technology, AEP Ohio stated it cannot implement such measures due to regulatory restrictions.

Construction is expected to begin in January and continue through fall 2027. Hilliard has appealed the air permit for the facility, and the local government remains apprehensive about the potential health risks due to historical pollution issues in the area.