Entergy Texas has placed its Orange County Advanced Power Station into service, adding 1,215 megawatts of generating capacity as electricity demand grows across Southeast Texas.
The facility, known as OCAPS, can generate enough electricity to power more than 230,000 homes. Entergy expects the plant to deliver more than $1 billion in long-term customer savings through improved fuel efficiency and lower operating costs.
"OCAPS is yet another way that we're making sure Texas families and businesses have the energy and infrastructure they need to succeed," said David Borde, CEO of Entergy Texas. He said the facility will help provide reliable electricity while supporting the region's continued growth.
Entergy expects electricity demand across its service area to increase by approximately 13% between 2024 and 2028. The company cited population growth and new commercial and industrial development as factors increasing the need for additional generation and stronger grid infrastructure.
OCAPS uses combined-cycle technology, which captures heat from electricity generation and uses it to produce additional power. The design allows the plant to adjust output as demand changes, helping operators respond to periods of high electricity use during extreme summer and winter weather.
Because fuel costs are passed through to customers, Entergy says the facility's greater efficiency is expected to reduce costs over time.
The project also generated an estimated $1.8 billion in economic activity during construction and supported more than 7,000 direct jobs, according to Entergy.
Orange Mayor Larry Spears Jr. said the facility will strengthen the Golden Triangle region's ability to maintain reliable electricity during severe weather, including hurricanes and winter storms, while supporting business development.
