We Energies announced plans to convert the 280 MW Valley cogeneration power plant from coal to natural gas. The Valley plant located in Milwaukee and generates electricity for the grid and produces steam for heating hundreds of downtown Milwaukee buildings.
The conversion is expected to cost between USD 60 and 65M and the capacity is expected to remain at 280MW. We Energies plans to file an application with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) for approval to modify the plant so that it can burn natural gas. If approval is received from the PSCW, We Energies expects the conversion to be completed in 2015 or 2016.
We Energies recently obtained a Certificate of Authority from the PSCW to upgrade an existing natural gas main that may provide fuel to the Valley plant. Construction on the main is underway and is expected to be finished in 2014.