With Arkansas facing extreme weather, officials reveal an ambitious energy plan aiming to create 7,500 jobs and ensure reliable, affordable power.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — State and energy officials joined on Thursday at the capital to introduce a new plan for energy infrastructure in the state.
They said that the move is prompted by the increase in jobs and a rise in industries.
“The next generation. Arkansas is a plan of action for our company spanning the next several years that builds off of discussions with our state leadership, recent legislation, and the hard work and planning of Entergy employees like those behind me,” Laura Landreaux, the President of Entergy Arkansas, said.
Landreaux said that the four points of the plan are better power, more power, job power, and affordable power to the state and its customers.
“Based on recent data, whether it’s stronger wind-related storms, tornadoes, Arctic winter storms, or even wildfires, Arkansas is seeing more extreme weather events than in previous years that, if not addressed, will impact power reliability,” Landreaux said.
That’s why Entergy is striving to create over 7500 new jobs and invest over $13 billion.
“This is our goal in the state of Arkansas. As far as energy creation, we want reliable power, affordable power, dependable power. We want to make sure that we have consistent power for the people back home,” State Senator Jonathan Dismang said.
During the press conference, Senator Dismang mentioned a new bill called the Generating Arkansas Jobs Act, which Entergy says is the blueprint of the plan
“We have a tool that our energy creators are going to be able to utilize to really help us advance forward,” Senator Dismang said.
And with economic growth and the plan for power growth, Senator Dismang explained that the future for Arkansas is golden.
“I really believe that we are in the golden age of Arkansas, or we are entering into it,” Senator Dismang said.
Entergy also mentioned that Arkansas’ rates are currently 22 percent lower than the national average, and they are continuing to find ways to reduce costs, increase efficiency, and offer innovative bill solutions for its customers.