News Release > Entergy Louisiana celebrates solar-powered milestone

Entergy Louisiana celebrates solar-powered milestone

02/20/2024

For the first time in the company's history, renewable power has surpassed coal in energy production

BATON ROUGE, La. – Entergy Louisiana is proud to announce that the company has reached a new milestone in its commitment to using sustainable energy solutions to make its generation portfolio even cleaner while fostering economic development. For the first time in the company's history, renewable power has surpassed coal in energy production.

According to data from the company’s 2023 power generation report, renewable energy production totaled over 1.1 million megawatt-hours (MWh), exceeding coal's output of just over 900,000 MWh during the same period. This milestone underscores the increasing role of renewable energy sources in Louisiana's energy mix as well as economics that favor cleaner generating resources such as modern gas.

"This achievement reflects Entergy Louisiana's unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation," said Phillip May, Entergy Louisiana president and CEO. "We are proud to lead the way in transitioning towards cleaner energy sources while continuing to deliver reliable and affordable power to our customers."

There are both economic and environmental considerations for adopting renewable power. Solar energy, for example, offers numerous benefits, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved air quality and job creation within the local community.

Today, nearly 25% of the company’s generation portfolio comes from carbon-free resources, including nuclear and renewable technologies. Entergy Louisiana’s long-term vision includes further investments in clean energy infrastructure, especially utility-scale solar because it is becoming more economic and dependable. The company’s vision also includes further investments in energy efficiency programs and partnerships with local stakeholders to promote sustainability and resilience.

Currently, Entergy Louisiana has approximately 230 megawatts of renewable resources, including the Capital Region Solar facility, which began delivering power to the grid in October 2020. In January of this year, the Louisiana Public Service Commission approved a solar filing consisting of approximately 225 MW of renewable projects, bringing the operating company’s total solar portfolio to over 3,000 MW in various stages of development and approval.

These newly approved solar developments in Louisiana are consistent with Entergy Corporation’s plans for as much as 15 to 17 gigawatts of renewable resources by the end of 2031. The company previously announced a commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

“We recognize the importance of collaboration and engagement with customers, regulators and community partners in achieving our sustainability goals,” added May. “By working together, we can create a brighter, cleaner future for generations to come.”

In addition, the projects will enhance the state’s energy infrastructure, ensuring a reliable power supply to support the burgeoning needs of industry and businesses who do or will call Louisiana home.

To learn more about our renewable energy generation growth, visit entergy.com/renewable-energy.

About Entergy Louisiana

Entergy Louisiana, LLC provides electric service to more than 1 million customers in 58 parishes and natural gas service to more than 94,000 customers in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Entergy Louisiana is a subsidiary of Entergy Corporation (NYSE: ETR), a Fortune 500 company. Entergy powers life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We’re investing in the reliability and resilience of the energy system while helping our region transition to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions. With roots in our communities for more than 100 years, Entergy is a nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship. Since 2018, we have delivered more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to local communities through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees.