Entergy seeking approval for floating power station

Entergy Louisiana is seeking approval to construct a floating natural gas power station off the state’s southeast coast.

Director of Resource Planning and Market Operations Laura Beauchamp said the project will enhance coastal reliability and resilience for such a vital part of the state.

“This project will provide 112-megawatts of capacity as well as a microgrid for our Port Fourchon, Grand Isle, and Golden Meadow communities,” said Beauchamp.

Beauchamp said it would be a first of its kind for Louisiana, situated atop a barge across from the substation in Leeville. She said that part of Louisiana is not only important for the state’s tourism and seafood industries but also from the perspective of the country’s energy security.

“Port Fourchon services 95 percent of the Gulf of Mexico’s deepwater energy production and handles 15 percent of the nation’s domestic and foreign oil operation, so it’s a critical base,” said Beauchamp.

The project must first receive approval from the Public Service Commission and will come with a price tag of $411 million. Beauchamp said as with any of their investments, the average Entergy Louisiana customer would see a $1.50 increase on their bill.

“However, it does bring benefits in that it is now a generator that can be used to service loads at all times. It comes with benefits, but it will be an incremental cost on customer bills,” said Beauchamp.

Assuming the project receives PSC approval in the next year, Beachamp anticipates it could be commissioned in 2028.