Mitsubishi Power, El Paso Electric in joint development agreement to achieve fully carbon-free energy mix by 2045

Clean energy efforts at El Paso Electric (EPE) got a boost this week with the announcement of a joint development agreement (JDA) signed between the company and Mitsubishi Power Americas, Inc., which will introduce joint development of future projects to help EPE go carbon-free by 2045.

“El Paso Electric is committed to advancing innovative technologies and customer-focused strategies to serve our communities in a reliable, affordable, sustainable manner,” Kelly Tomblin, president and CEO of El Paso Electric, said. “Consistently, we have announced the goal of 80 percent carbon neutrality by 2035 and the pursuit of 100 percent by 2045. Signing this joint development agreement will support those important goals.”

Together, the pair will focus on creating a hydrogen roadmap for EPE that will allow the generation of carbon-free energy across its power generation fleet. In the process, they will work to convert the newest unit at EPE’s Newman Power Station from solely natural gas generation to a blend of up to 30 percent hydrogen before eventually making it fueled fully by hydrogen, and thus, carbon-free. The companies will stress renewables, storage, and power generation through hydrogen means to replace carbon-intensive assets.

“We have 25 years to decarbonize electric power, which makes us all part of ‘The Power Generation,’” Paul Browning, president and CEO of Mitsubishi Power Americas, said. “We believe that during the energy transition, utilities will need total decarbonization solutions that leverage multiple technologies. That’s why we’re excited about entering into a JDA with El Paso Electric to collaborate on long-term planning, technology, integration, implementation, and support for their journey toward a carbon-free power generation and energy storage mix. Together with our customers, we are creating a Change in Power.”

EPE previously worked with Mitsubishi after selecting its 228 MW smart gas turbine for more power generation options in January. That turbine will allow EPE to triple its renewable energy portfolio and improve its rapid dispatch capability, all while reducing emissions. Under the JDA, EPE hopes to integrate further such resources while also evaluating future regional transportation, as well as commercial and other industrial sector coupling opportunities that could promote both decarbonization and economic growth.

According to Tomblin, the company also plans to pursue other partnerships to further economic growth opportunities in its service area.