NRG Energy, Inc. plans to build a new electric power generation plant at its existing Greens Bayou facility in Harris County, Texas. The project has been designated as a qualified initiative under the Texas Jobs, Energy, Technology, and Innovation (JETI) program. The 455-megawatt natural gas facility is expected to require $617 million in 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 state has emphasized job growth and economic development under Governor Greg Abbott’s administration, with efforts including supporting large-scale projects such as this one through public-private partnerships. The Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott has focused on initiatives that enhance employment opportunities and economic growth across the state (https://gov.texas.gov/).
In November 2025, NRG entered into a loan agreement with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) through the Texas Energy Fund for the plant’s construction. Once completed, it will supply electricity to the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) region starting 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 Superintendent John Moore commented on potential benefits for local education: “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,” he said. “Projects like this support local economic development while helping ensure long-term stability for public education.”
Governor Abbott has led statewide initiatives since his election in 2014 (https://gov.texas.gov/), focusing on economic opportunities, education enhancement, protection of individual liberties, parental empowerment in schooling decisions, as well as security along southern borders (https://gov.texas.gov/). His office operates from Austin at the State Insurance Building but delivers services across all regions of Texas (https://gov.texas.gov/).
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