#United States #Tulsa #Public Service Co #Green Country Plant #Oklahoma Corporation

Oklahoma Corporation Commission Approves PSO's New Acquisition

The Oklahoma Corporation Commission (OCC) recently approved a significant acquisition by the Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO) that promises to reshape the state’s energy landscape. The transaction involves PSO purchasing the Green Country Power Plant, a natural gas-fired generation facility boasting a substantial capacity of 795 megawatts, which is located in Jenks, Oklahoma. This purchase, expected to finalize by July 2025, reflects PSO’s ongoing commitment to fulfilling the energy requirements of its growing customer base.

Enhancing Energy Capacity

In a time when energy demands are increasingly rising, PSO’s acquisition of the Green Country Power Plant marks a vital step in enhancing the utility’s ability to deliver consistent and reliable power. Leigh Anne Strahler, President of PSO, emphasized the importance of this step, stating, “We recognize the strong leadership from the Oklahoma Corporation Commission and the open and collaborative process that enabled a positive result for our customers.” With this addition, PSO aims to solidify its position in providing stable power while also supporting the economic progress of Oklahoma.

The OCC's endorsement of this acquisition not only signifies confidence in PSO’s operations but also underlines the utility’s focus on maintaining affordable energy rates for its customers. By incorporating Green Country Power into its diverse generation portfolio, PSO is well-positioned to meet the state’s energy challenges effectively.

Community and Economic Benefits

Beyond just enhancing grid reliability, the acquisition is poised to generate significant benefits for local communities. With the operation of the Green Country facility, there is an expectation of increased ad valorem tax revenue, which will directly bolster funding for local public services and schools in Tulsa County. This means that the financial uplift from the facility will contribute to better educational resources and support job creation within the area.

This community-centric approach illustrates PSO's dedication to not only serving its customers but also contributing positively to the regions it operates in. Enhancing local infrastructure alongside energy capacity helps ensure a comprehensive benefit to the populace.

About PSO

As a subsidiary of American Electric Power (Nasdaq: AEP), PSO serves nearly 575,000 customer accounts across eastern and southwestern Oklahoma. The utility plays a pivotal role in transitioning towards a cleaner energy future, primarily leveraging natural gas and wind energy sources. With a generating capacity of around 4,400 megawatts, PSO is one of the largest distributors of wind energy in Oklahoma, showcasing its commitment to renewable energy.

PSO maintains an extensive network, operating over 20,000 miles of distribution lines and 3,800 miles of transmission lines. This infrastructural strength positions PSO as a leader in the energy sector, recognized for its contributions towards improved energy reliability and sustainable practices. The company has also been acknowledged with the Emergency Response Award from the Edison Electric Institute in January 2025, highlighting its focus on customer service and community engagement.

With the new acquisition of the Green Country Power Plant, PSO is set to further its mission of delivering affordable and reliable energy while driving economic growth and reinforcing its promise to the communities it serves. For updates and more information, visiting PSOklahoma.com or connecting on social media platforms is encouraged for the latest news and insights into PSO's initiatives and community involvement.