Despite industry challenges, Omaha Public Power District (OPPD, oppd.com) is making good progress on its Power with Purpose (PwP) initiative to add 600 megawatts (MW) of utility-scale solar and 600 MW of natural gas generation. The increased generation capacity will help maintain long-term reliability and resiliency of the utility’s electric system, while supporting OPPD’s work to become a net-zero carbon emitter by 2050.
Work is well underway for OPPD’s first solar facility. Platteview Solar in Saunders County will supply 81 MW of generation capacity. The PwP team is working on procuring the major equipment needed for the project. OPPD is also developing a plan for ground cover at the site, which includes a pollinator mix.
The natural gas generation project has completed the process of delivering nine Wärtsilä reciprocating internal combustion engines to Standing Bear Lake Station, a natural gas generation balancing plant under construction near 114th St. and Military Rd. The utility worked with Wärtsilä, large equipment movers, government officials, and law enforcement to complete the work safely and efficiently.
In late fall, two Siemens simple-cycle combustion turbines and generators will be moved to the other new natural gas generation balancing station location, in Sarpy County. Turtle Creek Station is south of 168th St. and Fairview Rd. Both plants will be completed by 2024.
For more information about Omaha Public Power District and the progress of these projects, go to OPPDCommunityConnect.com.