Louisiana Public Service Commission Approves Entergy’s Historic Solar Power Expansion

The Louisiana Public Service Commission has greenlit Entergy Louisiana’s ambitious plan to add up to three gigawatts of economic solar power to its generation portfolio, marking the largest renewable power expansion in the state’s history.

“This approval underscores our commitment to meeting operational and sustainability needs, driving economic development, and protecting the environment,” said Phillip May, Entergy Louisiana President and CEO. “It’s a significant win for the future of our state. I want to thank everyone who helped see this proposal come to fruition, including our local officials and regulators.”

The Commission’s approval facilitates a streamlined procurement and approval process, paving the way for the construction of multiple solar facilities across Louisiana. This initiative is expected to boost local communities through job creation and increased tax revenues. Additionally, the influx of clean energy is anticipated to attract new industries and jobs, aligning with Entergy Corporation’s broader goals of expanding renewable energy resources by 2031 and achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

This move represents a significant milestone in Entergy Louisiana’s ongoing efforts to modernize its power generation portfolio, aiming to provide cleaner, more efficient, and diverse energy solutions for its customers.

The adoption of renewable power brings both economic and environmental benefits. Solar energy, in particular, is noted for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving air quality, and creating local employment opportunities.

Currently, approximately 25% of Entergy Louisiana’s generation portfolio consists of carbon-free resources, including nuclear and renewable technologies. The company’s long-term vision includes further investments in clean energy infrastructure, especially utility-scale solar projects, which are becoming increasingly economical. Entergy Louisiana also plans to enhance energy efficiency programs and collaborate with local stakeholders to promote sustainability and resilience.

At present, Entergy Louisiana boasts around 230 megawatts of renewable resources. This includes the Capital Region Solar facility, the first utility-scale solar project approved by the Louisiana Public Service Commission, which began operations in October 2020. Earlier this year, the Commission approved an additional solar filing comprising approximately 225 MW of renewable projects, expanding Entergy Louisiana’s total solar portfolio to over 3,800 MW in various stages of development and approval.

The new projects are also expected to bolster the state’s energy infrastructure, ensuring a reliable power supply to support the growing demands of industry and businesses in Louisiana.