The City of Orange is moving forward with a significant partnership with Entergy to enhance its power supply resilience through a proposed $2.3 million project that will install two large generators at the wastewater treatment plant. This initiative, discussed during the City Council meeting on July 8, 2025, aims to provide backup power and ensure compliance with current Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) requirements.

The city will share the implementation costs with Entergy, with the city's contribution estimated at just over $900,000. Importantly, there will be no upfront costs to the city, as Entergy will cover the initial expenses. The city plans to repay this amount over a recommended ten-year period, with monthly payments projected to be around $12,500. This funding will come from the water and sewer enterprise fund, ensuring that general tax revenues will not be impacted.

The project is expected to significantly improve the reliability of power supply for critical operations at the wastewater treatment facility, which has long been a concern for city officials. The generators will support essential machinery and systems, enhancing local resilience against power outages.

In addition to the primary discussion on the generator installation, the council also addressed the financial implications of the project. The city plans to allocate one-third of its annual revenue from the dump station, approximately $100,000, towards the repayment of the project costs. This strategic financial planning aims to balance the city's operational needs while ensuring that essential infrastructure is maintained.

City officials expressed optimism about the partnership with Entergy, highlighting the potential for Orange to serve as a model for other municipalities in Texas. The council's decision to proceed with this project reflects a commitment to improving city services and infrastructure, ultimately benefiting residents by enhancing the reliability of essential utilities.

As the city prepares to finalize the agreement, officials are hopeful that this initiative will not only meet immediate power supply needs but also set a precedent for future collaborations aimed at bolstering community resilience and sustainability.