FPSC Approves New Natural Gas Power Plant in Northeast Florida

The Florida Public Service Commission (FPSC) has approved JEA's request for a new natural gas power plant in Northeast Florida. The proposed St. Johns River Power Park Unit 3 is a 678-megawatt natural gas-fired combined-cycle generating unit that will help meet growing electricity demand and replace retiring units.

Regulators determined that the facility is needed to accommodate increasing demand, particularly in Duval County and surrounding areas. According to FPSC Chairman Smith, 'Today's decision supports JEA's long-term planning to meet the region's growing electricity needs.'

The determination of need does not complete the approval process, as it is one component of Florida's power plant siting and certification process, coordinated by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.