NiSource rises on NIPSCO data center deal

** Shares of U.S. utility NiSource NI.N rise 3.5% to $41.76 in premarket trading

** Company's unit Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO) entered a deal with an investment grade company to provide electric service to its data centers, according to a filing with the SEC

** Co says the contract will be submitted to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission for approval

** NIPSCO expects to finance the project through a combination of debt and equity financing, which may include minority equity investments in subsidiaries

** Company says it may also pursue other funding sources, structures or partnerships as market conditions and strategic considerations evolve

** Up to last close, NI up 9.6% YTD