AES in Indiana has put out an integrated resource plan (IRP) where it openly defies all the rules of thumb in the current US energy landscape, by suggesting that if it chooses to refuel coal plants with gas, instead of installing more renewables, things will work out cheaper for its customers. That’s pretty unlikely. While we are not expecting fireworks from a slightly fossil fuel tolerant Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission when this is lined up for review in December, this type of decision is unlikely to be left to stand unchallenged, with perhaps someone reaching for the law courts to force a change of heart. At present IRPs are prepared every 3 years, and so there is no chance to…