Governor Greg Abbott has announced that NRG Energy, Inc. will build a new electric power generation plant at the existing NRG Greens Bayou facility in Harris County. The plant has been designated as a qualified project under the Texas Jobs, Energy, Technology, and Innovation (JETI) program. The planned 455-megawatt natural gas facility represents a $617 million capital investment.
“Texas is America’s energy leader,” said Governor Abbott. “This $617 million investment by NRG in Harris County will add more power to Texas’ energy infrastructure and help meet energy needs of Texas homes and businesses in the fifth-largest metropolitan area in the nation. Smart investments like these will power and sustain an even brighter future in Texas for generations to come.”
The announcement follows a November 2025 loan agreement between NRG and the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) through the Texas Energy Fund. The plant is expected to begin supplying electricity to the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) region in 2028.
“Moving Texas forward to meet rising energy demand involves public-private partnership, and NRG is grateful the Greens Bayou new build project is part of Governor Abbott’s innovative JETI program,” said NRG President Robert Gaudette. “Our new 455-megawatt facility at the Greens Bayou power plant will enhance grid stability, create job opportunities, and help make power more affordable for homes and businesses in Texas. We thank Governor Abbott, the Texas Legislature, the PUC, and the Galena Park Independent School District (ISD) for being excellent partners.”
“Galena Park ISD recognizes the potential of NRG’s investment in the Greens Bayou project and the positive impact it may bring to our community,” said Galena Park ISD Superintendent of Schools John Moore, Ed.D. “Projects like this support local economic development while helping ensure long-term stability for public education.”
The Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott has contributed to job growth and record employment levels across Texas according to its official website. The office also focuses on economic opportunities, job creation, enhancing education, protecting individual liberties, empowering parents in schooling decisions, and securing the southern border (source). Greg Abbott was first elected governor in 2014 (source) and his administration operates statewide from offices based primarily at Austin’s State Insurance Building (source). In 2024, he was named among TIME’s 100 Most Influential People (source).
