Invenergy reaches supply deal

Invenergy announced last week that it has reached a supply agreement with Hubbell.

The supply agreement involves $70 million in investment in the Grain Belt Express Phase 1 transmission line project in Missouri. Construction on the project is expected to begin in 2026.

“Grain Belt Express is the highest capacity transmission line in the U.S. and the longest line the U.S. has built in over 50 years, making this domestic supply agreement among the largest of its kind in the industry,” said Invenergy executive vice president for transmission Shashank Sane in a press release. “The products made by Hubbell and distributed out of Centralia will ensure a more reliable, resilient energy grid at a time of unprecedented demand.”

Invenergy is developing Skycrest Solar in northwest Jay County.

Deal announced

Leeward Renewable Energy announced more than 700 megawatts in renewable energy projects in Oklahoma.

The projects include the 372-megawatt Mayes County Solar portfolio, which includes three facilities in southern Oklahoma. The will support the company’s agreement with Google to support its data center operations.

“We are proud to expand our presence in Oklahoma with these projects which are ideally located to support Google’s data center operations,” said Eran Mahrer, Leeward chief commercial officer, in a press release. “This partnership with Google not only strengthens our collaboration but also contributes to the reliability of Oklahoma’s electric grid and helps advance national energy independence. By utilizing domestically manufactured equipment and creating job opportunities for Oklahomans, these projects deliver tangible benefits to local communities navigating the energy transition. They underscore our commitment to responsible development and fostering economic growth in regions critical to the future of energy.”

Leeward is developing Rose Gold Solar north of Dunkirk.

Applications open

CenterPoint Energy Foundation is accepting applications for its 2025 grant cycle.

Grants are available to nonprofit organizations in Indiana and Ohio that support “community vitality and education.” They cover projects including affordable housing, quality of place, literacy, STEM and workforce development.

“We are proud of the impact the CenterPoint Energy Foundation continues to have in helping create positive, meaningful change in the communities we’re privileged to serve,” said CenterPoint vice president of community relations June Deadrick in a press release. “We remain committed to investing in initiatives enriching the lives of those living and working in communities we currently serve, while building a strong foundation for a brighter tomorrow. We encourage qualified nonprofit organizations who focus on community vitality and education to apply for a grant through Feb. 14.”

CEO named

Yum! Brands last week named Scott Mezvinsky as news KFC Division CEO.

Mezvinsky, has been with Yum! Brands for 20years and currently serves as president of Taco Bell North American and International. He will step into his new role on March 1.

“Scott is one of Yum! Brands’ most respected leaders, with more than 20 years of experience with the company in areas including operations, strategy, finance and development and a strong track record of delivering impactful results,” said Yum! Brands CEO David Gibbs. “In his most recent role as President of Taco Bell North America and International, Scott has helped implement Taco Bell’s well-known bold and exciting ideas and ensured that global restaurant teams and customers have an industry-leading experience. He is a natural choice to lead KFC’s long-term global growth strategies, working in close partnership with our franchisees.”

Officer appointed

Advance Auto Parts has appointed Shweta Bhatia as its chief technology officer.

Bhatia previously served as senior vice president of technology at Dollar General. She also has experience with Walmart and Kohl’s.

“Shweta’s history of successfully executing transformational programs that focus on speed, efficiency, and providing quality solutions to customers will greatly contribute to the execution of our three-year financial plan,” Shane O’Kelly, Advance president and CEO, in a press release. “We welcome Shweta to our leadership team that is passionate about carrying out our decisive actions which will set up Advance for future growth and value creation.”

Donating for relief

Comcast NBCUniversal is donating $10 million to support wildfire relief efforts in Los Angeles.

The funding includes $2.5 million for Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles’ ReBUILD LA initiative. Additional funding will go to the American Red Cross, Entertainment Industry Foundation SoCal Fire Fund, Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, Los Angeles Regional Food Bank and YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles.

“We extend our deep appreciation to the first responders for their tireless and courageous efforts and to our news teams, including NBC4 and KVEA, who are providing vital coverage during this time,” said Brian L. Roberts, chairman and CEO of Comcast, in a press release. “We stand ready to support our employees and the broader Los Angeles community as we recover and rebuild from these tragic events.”