CPS Energy's plan to shut down three gas-fired units at Braunig facing an ERCOT roadblock

Sara DiNatale | Source: San Antonio Express News | Posted 04/24/2024

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas said Monday that losing the 859-megawatt output from Braunig’s three oldest natural gas-fired units would have a “material impact” on the grid and its reliability. CPS has said the plants are too expensive to operate and that it would rack up more costs to make upgrades necessary to reduce their emissions.

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The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) has expressed concerns about CPS Energy's plan to close part of the Braunig Power Station early, citing potential impacts on the grid's reliability due to the loss of the plant's output. CPS Energy has argued that the aging plants are expensive to operate and require costly upgrades to reduce emissions. ERCOT is now exploring alternative resources to potentially replace Braunig's capacity, with ongoing discussions between the two parties to find a resolution.

CPS Energy is moving towards renewable energy sources, planning to retire the Braunig units as part of its long-term strategy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. While ERCOT issues a request for proposals for more cost-effective alternatives to meet the increasing energy demand, discussions are ongoing to reach a transition plan that balances reliability concerns with operational costs, which could ultimately impact Texas ratepayers. In the meantime, CPS continues to expand its energy generation capacity through the acquisition of natural gas-fired plants and conversion of existing coal-fired plants to natural gas to meet future energy needs.

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CPS Energy's plan to shut down three gas-fired units at Braunig facing an ERCOT roadblock

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