Considering a greener future, Braunig Power Station faces a crossroads. This power station has been a vital part of San Antonio’s energy landscape for decades. Let’s delve into its history and current situation.
The V.H. Braunig Power Station first opened in 1966. It marked a turning point in water conservation. It ingeniously used treated wastewater to cool its boilers. This innovative approach reduced the reliance on precious drinking water. The construction of Braunig also led to the creation of Braunig Lake. This lake quickly became a popular fishing spot. It is located just south of downtown San Antonio. The nearby Calaveras power station and lake were constructed soon after, mirroring Braunig’s success.
Braunig Power Station’s three units generate about 860 megawatts of power. It is fueled by natural gas. Discussions about phasing out Braunig began in the mid-2010s. Officials recognized that the plants were nearing the end of their operational lives.
CPS Energy formally notified the Electric Reliability Council of Texas ERCOT. They plan to close the Braunig units by March 31, 2025. These power plants are nearing their operational end of life. CPS Energy says that major repairs are needed to keep the Braunig plants running. Those repairs alone will cost millions.
ERCOT argues that the units are vital to the state’s power grid. They want CPS Energy to keep them running to ensure grid stability. CPS Energy claims the units are old. They are costing more to run than they would to shut down.
Local environmental advocates support the move to close Braunig. They want CPS Energy to continue moving towards inexpensive renewables. The Alamo Sierra Club Chairman Alan Montemayor says that moving away from older technologies that produce more carbon dioxide is always a good thing.
CPS Energy has secured over 500 megawatts of solar generation since 2021. They also have 522 megawatts of natural gas-powered firming generation. Additionally, there is 50 megawatts of two-hour battery storage to replace the Braunig units. CPS Energy is seeking additional battery and solar resources.
CPS Energy’s president and CEO Rudy Garza says that natural gas is currently their cheapest and most reliable method for producing firming capacity. The cost of batteries and battery systems is still relatively high in comparison.
ERCOT will ultimately decide whether CPS Energy can close Braunig. ERCOT has the right to weigh in on this notice. They could require CPS Energy to extend operations. The future of Braunig Power Station hangs in the balance. The decision will impact San Antonio’s energy future. It will also affect the state’s power grid.