CenterPoint Energy, the energy delivery focused in transmission, distribution and generation of electricity and natural gas, announced this Thursday it has filed a request for approval for 335 megawatts of solar energy to feed Indiana.
Firstly, the company made the request to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) to enter into two power purchase agreements for the additional power. The request also comes as part of the next component in the company’s long-term electric generation transition plan.
Secondly, the request seeks approval to purchase 185 MWs of solar power, under a 15-year PPA, from Oriden; which is developing a solar project in Vermillion County; and for 50 MWs of solar power, under a 20-year PPA, from Origis Energy; which is developing a solar project in Knox County.
Thirdly, CenterPoint intends that these energy output will supply enough power to meet the needs of more than 70,000 homes or 12,000 commercial customers per year. The solar arrays are expected to be in service by 2023.
In addition to the proposed PPA’s, the company has filed and is awaiting an order on two other components of its electric generation transition plan. In fact, back in February, the company filed a request with the IURC seeking approval to acquire a 300 MW solar array; as well as an additional 100 MW PPA.
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CenterPoint Energy advancing its Smart Energy Future Plan
Moreover, just recently, according to the company’s statement; in June, it filed an application requesting approval to construct two natural gas combustion turbines; to replace portions of its existing coal-fired generation fleet.
Furthermore, as for the company’s plans for transition, Steve Greenley, Senior Vice President of Indiana Electric Operations for CenterPoint Energy, said. “These additional renewable resources would serve our local electric customers; providing a cost-effective, stable energy option. We also look forward to partnering with Oriden and Origis Energy as they bring these projects to fruition.”
On the other hand, Masahiro Ogiso, President and CEO of Oriden, said. “Oriden is proud to support CenterPoint Energy’s efforts to diversify their electric generation portfolio; and also, contribute to the future of cleaner energy for its customers.”
Finally, the PPA’s requested by CenterPoint represent the next component of the company’s Smart Energy Future Plan; to meet stakeholder sustainability goals and also implement a cost-effective, well-balanced energy mix for its 145,000 customers in southwest Indiana.
