NV Energy proposing over 400MW of new gas on top of 500MW of gas approved less than three months ago.   

The IRP outlines the utility’s strategy for future energy generation, which includes plans to add over 400 MW of new gas capacity. New gas plants are a major concern for Nevadans because they put ratepayers on the hook for decades to come to pay off the asset, on top of the future expense and volatility of out-of-state gas costs. They are also inconsistent with the state’s clear direction, and NV Energy’s commitments, to meet environmental goals. 

Just three months ago, NV Energy won approval to add 500 MW of gas to its portfolio by re-powering the North Valmy Generating Station with gas. Now they’re back asking for 400 MW more at the same location. 

Advanced Energy United Director Brian Turner issued the following statement:

"When NV Energy won approval for its Valmy plans, it made no mention that it would seek to expand the plant even further just three months later. This kind of ‘hiding the ball’ makes its gas operations look cheaper than they really are, and the lack of transparency hampers regulators’ and the public’s ability to examine the costs and benefits of these resources. 

A better option would be for NV Energy to take advantage of Nevada’s local resources by using renewables and batteries to provide more cost-effective energy and capacity needs without the future risk to ratepayers. NV Energy could also aggregate customer-owned resources like thermostats and electric vehicles already in homes and garages across Nevada to meet peak demand faster and cheaper. NV Energy has made some helpful strides in this regard, and their own analysis shows these clean resources perform well at lower cost. 

As NV Energy’s IRP undergoes review by the Nevada Public Utilities Commission, Advanced Energy United will be providing evidence that shows NV Energy can expand these efforts and serve Nevada more reliably and cost-effectively while meeting environmental goals.”