Renewable energy development in Louisiana is growing rapidly. Indeed, Louisiana is an ideal destination in the United States for emerging companies looking to invest in a skilled workforce and accessible infrastructure. To meet these needs and attract new economic opportunities, the state must provide safe and reliable power and renewable energy sources. To that end, Entergy Louisiana recently submitted the largest renewable energy expansion application in the state’s history, which represents a major step forward in meeting the sustainability needs of its current and future customers.
Request to develop three gigawatts of solar renewable energy
On March 13, Entergy Louisiana filed an application with its regulator, the Louisiana Public Service Commission, for approval to add an additional three gigawatts ofsolar power to its generation portfolio, on top of the 225 megawatts requested earlier in the month. This application includes approximately 175 megawatts from a facility in Iberville Parish and approximately 49 megawatts from what would become the Sterlington Solar Facility in Ouachita Parish. Collectively, these additions represent 3,225 megawatts of potential solar energy to meet the operational and sustainability needs of Louisiana businesses.
Creation of additional jobs and tax revenues
Individual demand resources of three gigawatts would be built in Louisiana. This means that communities and local economies would benefit from the additional jobs and tax revenues generated when the facilities are built. By diversifying its production portfolio, Entergy Louisiana also helps protect all of its customers from volatile natural gas prices and other factors beyond its control.
Commitment to the development of renewable resources in Louisiana
Entergy Louisiana currently has approximately 280 megawatts of renewable resources, including a solar facility in the Capital Region. This facility began supplying electricity to the grid in October 2020. Nearly 25% of the company’s portfolio comes from carbon-free resources. These solar additions in Louisiana are in line with Entergy Corporation’s plans for up to 15 to 17 gigawatts of renewable resources by the end of 2031. The company is also committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
These projects mark a critical step in updating Entergy’s power generation portfolio. They aim to meet customer demands for greener, more efficient and more diverse energy solutions.
