Economic development does not happen by chance—it takes dedication, coordination and strong relationships. For Kentucky Power, the responsibility of supplying electricity extends far beyond keeping the lights on. It is about helping communities across eastern Kentucky build a more prosperous future.

In towns scattered through the Appalachian hills, the challenges of attracting new industries or helping existing businesses expand are real. But Kentucky Power sees potential—not just in megawatts, but in people. That’s why the company has committed nearly $6 million in strategic economic development investments over recent years in its 20-county service territory.

“We are not just in the business of providing power,” said Amanda Clark, economic and business development manager. “We are in the business of empowering our communities to reach their fullest potential.”

Kentucky Power works closely with businesses, government officials and local development organizations to help guide every phase of business recruitment and expansion. Their approach is hands-on and strategic, offering everything from property searches and GIS mapping to confidential meetings with site consultants and local leaders.

Through the Kentucky Power Economic Growth Grant (K-PEGG) program, the company delivers funding to projects that directly support business growth—whether it is helping develop new industrial sites or investing in the marketing tools needed to attract new employers. This program has become a powerful channel for long-term economic progress, supporting feasibility studies, infrastructure upgrades, regional marketing campaigns and educational training for local economic developers.

Clark’s role is a reflection of the company’s deeper mission. She partners with city and county agencies to attract and retain businesses, works with internal teams to align infrastructure with evolving commercial needs and supports job creation initiatives that bring long-lasting benefits to the region.

“Access to reliable electricity is a cornerstone for businesses,” said Clark. “It not only supports their operations but also signals to investors that the community is ready for growth.”

The K-PEGG program provides resources for attracting new businesses, helping existing businesses expand, assisting with developing new business and industrial real estate products and economic development educational opportunities.

To further support investment, Kentucky Power offers incentives such as the Economic Development Rider. This program helps major projects take root by offering significant savings on electric rates for businesses creating new demand and jobs. For industries considering relocation or expansion, those benefits can be the difference between breaking ground—or moving on.

Eastern Kentucky already offers a compelling business case. With one of the largest concentrations of manufacturing workers in the South and a low cost of doing business, the region has what it takes to compete. What it needs is partnership—and that’s where Kentucky Power comes in.

By aligning its business goals with the growth of the communities it serves, Kentucky Power is helping build a more vibrant, resilient regional economy. Through programs like K-PEGG and the direct work of its Economic Development Team, the company continues to light the way toward opportunity—one connection at a time.