The Orange County Advanced Power Station is one step closer to delivering reliable, affordable and sustainable energy to support Southeast Texas’ growing needs.
The plant has successfully completed its “first fire,” a major milestone toward commercial operation. The phase marks the first-time fuel is introduced into the system and ignited, allowing crews to evaluate equipment performance and ensure all systems operate safely and in coordination.
Under the guidance of partners at Mitsubishi, Sargent & Lundy, and The Industrial Company (TIC), Entergy Texas CEO Eliecer Viamontes pressed the “on” button, bringing the plant to life for the first time.
“It was an honor to take part in this moment, but I know my role was the easiest part,” Viamontes said. “All the credit belongs to the thousands of employees and vendor partners who have dedicated their skill, determination and hundreds of thousands of hours to bring us to this point. Their work and commitment are what made this possible. This project is helping to build stronger communities by supporting economic growth and creating jobs across Southeast Texas.”
Pictured: Entergy Texas’ Orange County Advanced Power Station
Once fully operational, OCAPS, located in Orange, Texas, will generate about 1,215 megawatts of electricity — capable of powering more than 230,000 homes. The facility is designed to support continued economic growth across Southeast Texas while reducing emissions through modern, efficient technology. Its fuel efficiency is expected to generate more than $1 billion in customer savings over its lifetime.
With first fire complete, teams will advance into additional testing as part of the commissioning process. OCAPS is scheduled to begin serving customers in late summer 2026.
Learn more about OCAPS’ progress at entergytexas.com/powerstexas.
About Entergy Texas
Entergy Texas provides electricity to approximately 538,000 customers in 27 counties. Entergy Texas is a subsidiary of Entergy Corporation. Entergy produces, transmits and distributes electricity to power life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. Its customers are connected to the Midcontinent Independent System Operator Inc. power grid, which is a regional transmission organization responsible for administering the transmission systems of member utilities in 15 states stretching across the central region of the United States and Manitoba, Canada. We’re investing for growth and improved reliability and resilience of our energy system while working to keep energy rates affordable for our customers. We’re also investing in cleaner energy generation like modern natural gas, nuclear and renewable energy. A nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship, Entergy delivers more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to the communities we serve through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is a Fortune 500 company headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. Learn more at entergytexas.com and connect with @EntergyTX on social media.
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