Connecticut Siting Council approves Killingly Energy Center
The Connecticut Siting Council today approved NTE Energy’s application for a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need, paving the way for continued development of the Killingly Energy Center.
NTE Chief Executive Officer Seth Shortlidge said the council’s decision reaffirmed the need for the new 650-megawatt natural gas-fired facility at a time when older, less-efficient power plants across New England are nearing retirement.
“We appreciate the diligence and thoughtfulness with which the siting council reviewed our application,” said Shortlidge, adding that with the receipt of the certificate, construction could begin as early as this fall. “The approval of the certificate supports the need for cleaner, flexible electric generation that will help secure the region’s power reliability.”
Shortlidge noted that the Killingly Energy Center will support the State of Connecticut’s compliance with the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2008 through NTE’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emission levels at least 80 percent below initial operating levels by 2050. Beyond this, NTE has committed to retiring the facility in 2050 or otherwise operating it with zero net greenhouse gas emissions.
“NTE is committed to responsible environmental stewardship and renewable power generation,” Shortlidge said. “Our commitment to reduce emission levels is one way we can challenge other power generators to be more accountable for today’s energy needs and the effects of climate change on our future.”
In addition to providing New England with a cleaner and more efficient source of electric generation, the Killingly Energy Center promises to provide economic benefits to the area. In 2018, the Killingly Town Council approved a Tax Stabilization Agreement through which the Killingly Energy Center will become one of the town’s largest taxpayers, contributing more than $100 million to the town over the 20-year term of the agreement.
NTE is also providing an additional $5 million for scholarships and other town projects under the Community Environmental Benefit Agreement between NTE and the town. In addition, NTE has committed to providing Ellis Tech students with valuable hands-on work experience on the Killingly Energy Center’s construction.
“The economic and environmental benefits of the Killingly Energy Center, combined with its reliable, affordable electric generation, make this project a win-win for Connecticut and the entire New England region,” Shortlidge said.
NTE Energy is investing approximately $700 million in private capital to construct the Killingly Energy Center. Once the project’s financing has been finalized, construction will begin. Construction of the plant is expected to generate approximately 450 well-paying construction jobs as well as 20 permanent, full-time jobs with a total annual payroll of approximately $2 million once the facility becomes operational.
About NTE Energy
With offices in Boston and Charlotte and headquarters in St. Augustine, Florida, NTE Energy develops strategically located electric generation facilities within North America. Through its affiliates, the NTE team executes all aspects of project development, from initial market and site evaluations and permitting to financing, construction and operation. For more information about NTE Energy, visit www.nteenergy.com.