CenterPoint Energy Proposes Next Step in Smart Energy Future Plan

CenterPoint Energy has announced its plan to construct two natural gas combustion turbines to complement its expanded renewables portfolio in Indiana. The estimated $323 million turbine facility would be constructed at the current site of A.B. Brown power plant and will provide a combined output of 460 megawatts (MW), replacing portions of its existing coal-fired generation fleet. The turbines are targeted to be operational in 2024, as part of CenterPoint Energy's long-term generation transition plan.

As part of its generation transition plan, CenterPoint Energy added 50 MW of universal solar in Troy, Ind., which is now in service, and filed a request to enter into agreements on the acquisition of a 300 MW solar array and a power purchase agreement (PPA) for an additional 100 MWs of solar energy. The company aims to maintain a cost-effective, well-balanced energy mix for its 145,000 customers in southwest Indiana.

Key Takeaways:

• CenterPoint Energy plans to construct two natural gas combustion turbines, valued at approximately $323 million, to replace coal-fired generation at the A.B. Brown power plant in Posey County, Indiana.
• The turbines will provide a combined output of 460 MW and are targeted to be operational in 2024.
• The construction of the turbines is part of CenterPoint Energy's long-term generation transition plan, which aims to introduce significant renewables and natural gas into its portfolio, reducing carbon emissions by nearly 75% from 2005 levels.
• The company has added 50 MW of universal solar in Troy, Indiana, and filed a request to acquire a 300 MW solar array and a 100 MW power purchase agreement for solar energy.
• CenterPoint Energy aims to maintain a cost-effective, well-balanced energy mix for its 145,000 customers in southwest Indiana.
• The proposed construction of the natural gas-generated turbines will have no immediate impacts on residential electric bills.

Statistics:

• Estimated cost of the turbine facility: $323 million
• Combined output of the turbines: 460 MW
• Targeted completion date: 2024
• Number of customers: 145,000
• Carbon emissions reduction goal: 75% from 2005 levels
• Total renewable energy capacity added: 100 MW (universal solar) and 300 MW (solar array)

Sources:

• CenterPoint Energy (2021, June 17) Press Release: CenterPoint Energy Proposes Next Step in Smart Energy Future Plan
• CenterPoint Energy (2020) Integrated Resource Plan (IRP)
• CenterPoint Energy (2021, March 31) Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020
• CenterPoint Energy (2021, March 31) Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2021