INNIO Group has secured a contract to supply technology for a 104MW power plant in Texas, marking a significant step in the state’s efforts to bolster grid stability and integrate more renewable energy. The project, a collaboration between INNIO and Greenville Electric Utility System (GEUS), aims to address peak load demands and support the growing energy needs of over 17,200 customers in Greenville and surrounding areas.
The power plant, scheduled for commissioning in mid-2027, will feature 11 Jenbacher J920 FleXtra engines, each delivering 9.5MW. These engines are noted for their fast-start capability, able to reach full load in just two minutes, a critical feature for managing sudden spikes in energy demand. The facility will also include advanced cooling systems and emissions-aftertreatment systems to ensure operational efficiency and environmental compliance.
Olaf Berlien, president and CEO of INNIO Group, highlighted the project’s importance, stating, “This project is a milestone for Texas and for INNIO. With fast-start capability, flexibility, and sustainability, we are creating the energy infrastructure that modern grids need: reliable, growth-promoting, and supporting the expansion of renewables.”
The investment by GEUS in advanced technology underscores a commitment to meeting the evolving energy requirements of the community. Bill Shepherd, general manager of GEUS, emphasized the project’s broader implications: “This project is more than an infrastructure upgrade; it’s a commitment to supply the Greenville community with fast-start, low-cost, reliable generation for years to come. As our community grows, having a power resource that can respond instantly to peak demand is essential. This new plant positions GEUS to ensure long-term reliability, manage costs responsibly, and continue delivering the dependable service our customers expect.”
As the oldest of the 72 municipally-owned utilities in Texas, GEUS serves a significant portion of the local population with electric, cable, and Internet services. The new power plant will be capable of covering peak loads exceeding 125MW, a testament to the utility’s forward-thinking approach to energy management.
This development could set a precedent for other utilities grappling with similar challenges, particularly in regions experiencing rapid growth and increased renewable energy integration. The project’s success may encourage other municipalities to invest in flexible, fast-start technologies to enhance grid stability and support sustainable energy goals. Moreover, it highlights the growing role of advanced engine technology in modernizing energy infrastructure, potentially influencing future projects and policy decisions in the sector.