EXHIBIT 23(a)




INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT


We consent to the incorporation by reference in this
Registration Statement of Indianapolis Power & Light Company
on Form S-3 of our report dated January 24, 1997, appearing
in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Indianapolis Power &
Light Company for the year ended December 31, 1996 and to
the reference to us under the heading "Experts" in the
Prospectus, which is part of this Registration Statement.


/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP
Indianapolis, Indiana
December 18, 1997