When you turn on the lights or plug in a cell phone charger, do you ever think about where that power comes from? As the landscape of energy continues to evolve through a period of accelerated innovation, there’s more than one answer to that question – because a diverse mix of fuel types is essential to a resilient and sustainable grid.
Historically, Central Florida – like most of the United States – has relied on fossil fuel power plants that convert fuel into steam into energy. By diversifying fuels and technology used to generate power, OUC is making strides toward the goal of Net Zero CO2 Emissions by 2050. That’s why, in 2021, the utility announced plans to supplement the grid with natural gas power at the recently acquired Osceola Generating Station (OGS).
A cleaner, lower-emissions source, natural gas is a good bridge technology to renewable sources like solar. OGS also showcases the adaptability of this fuel type: Comprised of three separate turbines – called “peakers” – the power plant can be powered up or down in just minutes, making it a flexible solution for fluctuations in solar power.
Over time, this supplemental energy will become less necessary: OUC is developing and testing grid-scale battery storage systems that store energy generated by solar panels for use even in cloudy weather or at night. Also, in 2024, the utility is more than doubling solar capacity with two 74.5 MW solar farms in Osceola County, bringing total capacity to 274 MW across Central Florida.
This fall, OUC is installing the largest floating solar array in the southeastern United States. The 2MW system will be owned and operated by OUC and placed on a retention pond in southeast Orlando. This will be OUC’s third floating solar project.
Through sustainable solutions, fuel diversity, and flexible, forward-looking planning, OUC continues to lead the way toward the future of energy. It’s a winning combination for customers and the Central Florida community.
