DOE named CenterPoint Energy’s Project TALON among projects it intends to help fund. The project seeks $50 million in federal aid toward its about $176.7 million cost; it would increase transmission capacity and help the grid respond faster to power fluctuations.
Project TALON would deploy an advanced transmission-system stabilization device. The project narrative says it would help the grid react quickly to power fluctuations and deliver consistent, continuous power; DOE says the project would increase transmission capacity and improve reliability under high-load conditions.
DOE selected 31 projects in 26 states for its SPARK initiative; together, they are expected to receive $5.25 billion, including $1.9 billion in federal funding and $3.35 billion in recipient contributions. They are expected to deploy grid-enhancing technology across nearly 21,000 miles and make more than 23 gigawatts of additional electricity capacity available. CenterPoint says it is investing in grid improvements as it seeks to rebuild trust after weather outages, including Hurricane Beryl; regulators and customers have pressed it on storm readiness and communication. DOE and CenterPoint were expected to discuss the project at a joint news conference later Thursday.
