Step 4: Provide the benefits of an all-of-the-above generation plan
As Southeast Texas experiences rapid industrial and residential growth, Entergy Texas is preparing to meet the increasing electricity needs of our customers. We are increasing our investments in renewable energy to reduce dependence on natural gas and diversify our energy portfolio. In 2023, approximately 88% of our energy supply was linked to volatile natural gas prices, which is significantly higher than other vertically integrated electric utilities. By incorporating renewable resources, we aim to reduce this risk while meeting growing customer demand for cleaner power.
In July of 2024, Entergy Texas filed an application with the Public Utility Commission of Texas to develop two major solar facilities: the Segno Solar Facility and the Votaw Solar Facility. These proposals, formally known as our Renewable Portfolio, are projected to deliver more than $16 million in net benefits to customers, while also boosting the Southeast Texas economy.
Entergy Texas proposes two solar facilities to diversify the company’s energy sources and create a more stable energy market in Southeast Texas.
The Segno Solar Facility is a 170-megawatt solar plant to be built in Polk County, Texas. The facility is expected to be operational by February 2027. The Votaw Solar Facility, a 141 MW solar plant, will be located near Votaw, Texas, in Hardin County, and is slated to begin operations by May 2028. The construction of these solar facilities will contribute approximately $843 million into the region and create over 3,400 jobs. Once operational, these facilities will continue to provide long-term economic benefits and support Southeast Texas’ shift toward a more diversified energy supply.
To facilitate this transition, we are introducing a new voluntary renewable tariff, building on the success of Entergy Texas’ first fully subscribed renewable program for industrial and commercial customers. This tariff will provide renewable power and zero-carbon emissions to more customers across Texas. In addition to meeting local demand, in accordance with the Inflation Reduction Act, the Segno and Votaw solar projects will take advantage of tax credits to help reduce costs for customers.
When combined with dispatchable resources such as the proposed Legend and Lone Star Power Stations, our Renewable Portfolio offers a comprehensive solution to meet Southeast Texas’ growing energy capacity needs, ensure reliability and help customers achieve sustainability goals.
