Entergy Texas has secured nearly $54 million in federal funding through the Department of Energy’s Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) program, established under the bipartisan Infrastructure Act. The funding will be used to improve the resiliency of the power grid in the Pear Ridge, Kolbs and Lakeview neighborhoods of Port Arthur, with the goal of reducing power outages, reducing restoration costs and protecting utility infrastructure from extreme weather events.

The project, which will benefit approximately 7,000 homes and businesses, includes improvements such as the installation of 950 new or buried distribution structures, the strengthening of 57 transmission structures, the deployment of 14 devices to improve response to power outages current and the addition of a PLC. -healing microgrid with a large battery to handle short-term outages. These measures are expected to reduce outage duration by approximately 257 million minutes over the next 50 years and generate $74 million in savings in storm recovery efforts.

The GRIP program aims to strengthen the country’s electricity grid against the effects of climate change and extreme weather conditions. The nearly $54 million federal grant will match Entergy Texas’ investment in the project. The initiative also includes a community benefits plan focused on job creation, workforce engagement, education and job training programs for residents, particularly in disadvantaged areas of Port Arthur.

Port Arthur has experienced significant impacts related to extreme weather, including recent hurricanes, highlighting the need to improve grid infrastructure in the region. Local leaders, including Port Arthur Mayor Thurman Bartie, have expressed support for the project, emphasizing the importance of building the city’s resilience to future weather events.

Entergy Texas’ efforts align with federal priorities to improve energy reliability and affordability, particularly in communities vulnerable to weather-related risks and economic challenges. The project is expected to bring long-term benefits to the region’s power grid and economic development.