2 minute read | July.16.2026
Kentucky Infrastructure Partners achieved financial close for the University of Kentucky’s approximately $580 million Central Utility Plant (CUP) project, marking a major milestone in the university’s long-term infrastructure modernization strategy and paving the way for full-scale construction and implementation.
Orrick represented NORESCO, the project’s operations and maintenance (O&M) service provider.
NORESCO, one of the largest energy service companies in the U.S., helps institutions modernize critical infrastructure, improve operational efficiency and meet evolving energy demands.
Kentucky Infrastructure Partners is the consortium delivering the project, which includes developers Plenary Americas and Walsh Investors, design-builders Walsh-Turner joint venture and NORESCO as the O&M service provider.
A cornerstone of the University of Kentucky’s long-term infrastructure strategy, the CUP project will support the university's continued growth, including the expansion of the University of Kentucky Albert B. Chandler Hospital and other leading research, academic and healthcare facilities.
The project will design, finance, build, operate and maintain a central utility plant that will enhance the University's heating, cooling and back-up power capabilities. It also includes substantial upgrades to the campus-wide district energy distribution network and modernization of existing utility infrastructure, improving reliability, resilience and capacity across the campus for decades to come.
The Orrick team was led by Matthew Neuringer and included Michelle Conde and Ignacio Concha.