The new 675MW power plant will provide electricity to 300,000 homes.
JEA’s CEO and managing director, Vickie Cavey, has been authorized to finalize an agreement with GE Vernova by the end of August 2025 to secure the utility’s place in the manufacturer’s production schedule. The project aims to enhance system reliability and meet the growing energy demands in northeast Florida driven by population growth.
The facility will replace the aging Northside Generating Station Unit 3, a 48-year-old natural gas unit, which JEA plans to retire by 2031 due to costly repairs and the need for significant investments to meet environmental standards. The new plant is expected to improve gas efficiency by 30% compared to the current unit, offering a more sustainable and cost-effective solution.
JEA board chair Joseph DiSalvo stated: “We have to be able to deliver reliable energy to everyone, all JEA customers. The risk is unacceptable if we punt combined cycle down the road. My personal view is that the risk isn’t worth it.” This reflects the board’s commitment to ensuring a stable energy supply for the region.
The decision aligns with recommendations from JEA’s 2023 Integrated Resource Plan, which proposed replacing Northside Unit 3 with a combined cycle facility. The new plant is expected to support efficient power generation, reduce operational costs, and contribute to the local economy by creating jobs. Additionally, JEA anticipates the facility will operate debt-free after 30 years, further benefiting the community.
This development underscores JEA’s focus on modernizing its energy infrastructure to meet future demands while prioritizing reliability and environmental considerations. The project is poised to strengthen Jacksonville’s energy network and support sustainable growth in the region.
