GE Vernova is forming a venture with two partners, to address rising demand for computing power and generative AI. The recent General Electric spin-off that develops and supplies industrial and alternative energy systems will fill the role of original equipment manufacturer for the projects they will launch.
NRG Energy Inc. is a power generator and energy retailer that will contribute power generation and wholesaling expertise; and TIC – The Industrial Co., a subsidiary of Kiewit Corp., will provide project oversight and management.
The new partners did not report financial or any other details of their venture.
“The growing demand for electricity in part due to GenAI and the buildup of data centers means we need to form new, innovative partnerships to quickly increase America’s dispatchable generation,” stated NRG exec. vice president Robert J. Gaudette. “Working together, these three industry leaders are committed to executing with speed and excellence to meet our customers’ generation needs.”
The venture reported that four projects will launch their collaboration, involving natural gas combined cycle power plants to serve the ERCOT and PJM electrical transmission grids, in Texas. The total generating capacity of the new installations will be 5 gigawatts (GW), according to the venture’s announcement.
The first project will be a 1.2-GW installation expected to start commercial operation in 2029, with two GE 7HA gas turbines.
Subsequent projects are scheduled to come online through 2032. “The model is replicable and scalable, with the potential to fill a future pipeline of 10-15 GW and expand to other areas across the U.S.,” according to GE Vernova.
GE Vernova recently outlined a $600-million expansion program for its U.S. manufacturing plants and development centers, anticipating growing demand for generating capacity to support the industrial and consumer requirements of advanced computing.
