Wind turbines are shown in Palm Springs, California, U.S., October 12, 2024.
According to the EIA, around 4.3 GW of this planned capacity is currently under construction. The majority of the nation’s existing natural gas-fired generation comes from combined-cycle gas turbines (CCGTs), which are known for their flexibility and fuel efficiency.
In 2025, developers are expected to add 1.6 GW of new CCGT capacity. This represents a significant increase compared to the 98 megawatts added in 2024, which came solely from the Plaquemines facility in Louisiana.
The limited growth in recent years has been attributed to a rising emphasis on renewable energy sources, including wind and solar. This trend has been supported by declining construction costs for renewable technologies and the availability of federal incentives, contributing to developers prioritizing alternative energy investments.
The EIA noted that more than half of the 3.3 GW projected for completion in 2026 is already in the construction phase. In contrast, most projects scheduled for 2027 have not yet begun construction, reflecting variability in project readiness.
Looking ahead, as much as 10.6 GW of additional capacity could be introduced in 2028. If fully realized, this would represent the largest annual increase in CCGT installations since 2018, indicating a potential shift in investment toward natural gas-based power generation after several years of relatively slow growth.
Despite the optimistic projections, the EIA emphasized that these future additions remain subject to multiple factors. Developers must navigate regulatory approvals and ensure timely access to necessary equipment. These requirements may affect project timelines and influence whether the proposed capacity targets are met within the specified period.
The EIA continues to monitor developments in the power sector, including shifts in fuel preferences, infrastructure readiness, and policy impacts on energy investment. Future reports will provide updates on the progress and operational status of the announced projects.
