TXBIZNEWS
Governor Greg Abbott announced a second Texas Energy Fund (TEF) loan agreement to fund a 456 megawatt (MW) natural gas power plant in Houston, built by NRG Energy Inc. (NRG), with operations expected by Summer 2026, as detailed in a press release last week.
The Details:
- Governor Abbott said, “This 456 megawatt investment… will help bear the load of the largest electricity demand area in the state, ensuring reliable and affordable power.”
- The Public Utility Commission (PUC) is providing a 20-year, $216 million loan at 3% interest, covering 60% of the $360 million project cost, to serve the ERCOT Houston Load Zone.
- PUC Chairman Thomas Gleeson noted, “The Texas Energy Fund is accomplishing… securing reliable, on-demand power to fuel Texas’ rapid growth.”
- NRG’s Robert J. Gaudette added, “The development… is already providing significant construction jobs and will enhance grid stability.”
- The plant, at the TH Wharton Generating Station, will create permanent jobs and support the fifth-largest U.S. metro area, including Houston and Pasadena.
Why It Matters:
This project strengthens Texas’s energy grid and economy amid growing demand, with 15 additional TEF projects proposing 8,392 MW.
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