CPS Energy staff has recommended that the company and community pursue participation in the expansion of the South Texas Project (STP) nuclear power plant as part of a diversified plan to satisfy Greater San Antonio’s long-term electrical needs. The recommendation to the CPS Energy Board of Trustees comes after three years of detailed study of various energy options.  It also aligns with the Strategic Energy Plan, CPS Energy’s four-objective roadmap for satisfying future energy requirements. 

The total estimated cost to build Units 3 and 4 – each capable of generating 1,350 megawatts (MW) – next to existing Units 1 and 2 near Bay City along the Texas coast is $10 billion, or $13 billion with financing.  Currently, CPS Energy owns 40 percent of STP 1 and 2, with NRG Energy Inc., of Princeton, N. J. (40 percent) and Austin Energy (16 percent). CPS Energy and NRG are 50-50 partners in STP 3 and 4. However, CPS Energy is exploring ownership options that would reduce the financial impact on customers. This would trim CPS Energy’s share with financing to $5.2 billion.

A summer-long public education and input process will be undertaken before making a decision on STP 3 and 4. CPS Energy will host Neighbors' Nights, public meetings scheduled throughout the community from July through mid-September, to allow customers to learn more about the recommendation. Customers also can submit their comments to CPS Energy via e-mail. If approved by CPS Energy's Board of Trustees in September, the proposal would then go to the San Antonio City Council for final consideration in October.