Alpha Generation has announced plans to enhance and upgrade power infrastructure facilities in New Jersey, Maryland, and Ohio. The initiative aims to supply an additional 450 megawatts of electrical generation.
The upgrades will add 309 megawatts at the Linden facility, 53 megawatts at the Bergen generating station, 56 megawatts at the Keys Energy Center in Maryland, and 30 megawatts at the Lordstown Energy Center in Ohio.
These projects have been selected by PJM Interconnection as part of efforts to expedite interconnection for projects ready for immediate implementation. PJM cites increasing demand for power due to electrification and industrial needs as reasons for rising prices at capacity auctions.
In New Jersey, electricity rates are expected to increase by approximately 20% on June 1 following the latest PJM capacity auction results.
The enhancements are projected to improve grid power reliability and capacity, potentially providing electricity for up to 450,000 homes. Curt Morgan, CEO of AlphaGen, stated on May 7: “We are pleased PJM has deemed our projects of high reliability value.” He added that expansion is based on market signals indicating a need for new generation and anticipated state support for necessary permits.
The Bergen project involves gas turbine upgrades and a steam turbine upgrade to improve efficiency and output by 53 MW, with completion possible by 2027. The Linden project includes a steam turbine upgrade and full combustion turbine upgrades aiming for an additional ~309MW ICAP increase by 2029 or 2030.
Combined, these New Jersey projects equate roughly to adding 1,000 MW of offshore wind capacity. They could serve between 275,000 to 400,000 homes.
Upgrades at Keys and Lordstown involve Advanced Turbine Efficiency Package gas turbine improvements expected to boost generating capacity by 56 MW and 30 MW respectively while enhancing efficiency and reducing emissions. These could be completed by 2027.
State policymakers aim to quickly add generating capacity without relying heavily on energy from other states. Unlike new greenfield projects that face significant challenges such as interconnection delays or cancellations due to siting or environmental issues, these proposed upgrades will occur at existing stations without major transmission system changes required.
Morgan emphasized AlphaGen's commitment: “AlphaGen is doing its part to maximize the potential of our existing generating infrastructure.” He expressed anticipation about collaborating with local partners: “We look forward to working with our local and state partners.”
AlphaGen operates under ArcLight Capital Partners LLC’s affiliate ownership. It manages over 11,000 megawatts across four regional transmission organization markets including PJM. ArcLight has invested significantly in critical electrification infrastructure since its inception in 2001.
