NRG Energy, Inc. plans to build a new 456-megawatt natural gas facility at the existing TH Wharton Generating Station in Harris County, Texas. The project has been designated as a qualified project under the Texas Jobs, Energy, Technology, and Innovation (JETI) program, according to an announcement by Governor Greg Abbott.
Governor Abbott stated, “Texas energy powers our state’s booming economy. This $360 million investment by NRG in Harris County is a significant advancement in Texas’ energy infrastructure. The new natural gas facility will expand power generation and provide reliable, affordable energy for homes and businesses in one of the largest electricity demand centers in Texas. By investing in reliable, dispatchable energy, we will add more power and better fortify our grid.”
A Texas Energy Fund loan agreement between NRG and the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) was announced in August for this facility, which is expected to begin operations by summer 2026. The facility will serve the Electric Reliability Council of Texas Houston Load Zone, which includes Houston, Pasadena, and The Woodlands.
Robert Gaudette, Executive Vice President and President of NRG Business and Wholesale Operations, commented, “NRG’s new simple cycle 456 MW natural gas facility at the TH Wharton power plant is not only generating significant construction related job opportunities, but once online in 2026, the completed facility will provide additional permanent jobs, enhanced grid stability and regional economic growth. Moving Texas forward to meet surging energy demand involves public-private partnership, and NRG is grateful the TH Wharton new build project is part of Governor Abbott’s innovative JETI program. Thank you to Governor Abbott, the Texas Legislature, the PUC, and the Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District (ISD) for being such excellent partners.”
Karen Smith, Chief Financial Officer of Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, added, “The Cypress-Fairbanks ISD Board of Trustees supported the partnership with NRG and Governor Abbott’s JETI program for the construction of the TH Wharton power plant because the project will enhance the reliability of the power grid and provide permanent jobs. The TH Wharton project will accommodate the growing energy demand in the district and Houston area.”
The Houston metropolitan area, which will benefit from this expansion, is among the largest electricity demand centers in Texas and ranks as the fifth-largest metropolitan area in the United States.
More information about NRG can be found at their website.
