NRG Energy, Inc. will build a new 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. The facility will use a simple cycle design and is expected to provide 456 megawatts of power, with a capital investment of approximately $360 million.
Governor Greg Abbott commented on the development, stating, “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 loan agreement for the project was reached in August between NRG and the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC). The facility is scheduled to begin operations by summer 2026 and will serve the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) Houston Load Zone, which includes Houston, Pasadena, and The Woodlands. This region is recognized as the fifth-largest metropolitan area in the United States.
Robert Gaudette, Executive Vice President and President of NRG Business and Wholesale Operations, said, “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 for 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 expansion aims to increase reliable energy supply to the Houston area, which has experienced rising electricity demand as part of broader growth trends across Texas metropolitan regions.
