A buyer from Kentucky is negotiating the purchase of the Gibbons Creek Power Plant near Carlos.
A news release was sent out Thursday by the city of Bryan, on behalf of Charah Solutions of Louisville, which said they are in talks with the Texas Municipal Power Agency (TMPA) for the acquisition, remediation, and redevelopment of the plant.
In the announcement however, it did say that the buyers do not have plans on a restart of the coal-fired plant. They will consider, though, renewable energy, agricultural, commercial, or industrial opportunities.
Scott Sewell, the President and CEO of Charah, said that “our Environmental Risk Transfer services represent an innovative solution designed to meet the evolving and increasingly complex needs of our utility partners. Many utilities are experiencing an increased need to retire and decommission older or less economically viable generating assets while minimizing costs and maximizing the value of the assets and improving the environment. This is a perfect example of Charah Solutions providing a custom approach for these complex projects, as we are able to provide not only the environmental remediation expertise needed to meet regulations but also bring the right partners to the table to redevelop the property while creating local jobs and lowering the cost for our utility partner.”
Charah plans to continue operating the Gibbons Creek campground and RV park.
According to the release, Charah is continuing negotiations for purchase with the TMPA. They would be responsible for the shut down and decommissioning of the plant, as well as performing environmental remediation work for the property’s landfills and ash ponds.
“We are pleased to work with Charah Solutions to reduce the environmental risk and costs for TMPA and its member cities and ratepayers while redeveloping the plant and property to expand economic activity and support the tax base, including the Grimes County Schools,” said Bob Kahn, TMPA General Manager. “The transaction will save member cities millions in expenses associated with decommissioning and environmentally remediating the plant site.”
The plant has an unnamed potential buyer as late as August, but the TMPA cut ties with the buyer due to not making payments.
The reservoir currently draws about 200 visitors each day.