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09 Apr 2025

Gemma to Proceed With EPC Contract for Natural Gas-Fired Plant in Texas

09 Apr 2025  by power-technology   
Gemma Power Systems, a subsidiary of Argan, has received approval to begin work on a 1.2-gigawatt (GW) natural gas-fired power plant in Sandow Lakes, Lee County, Texas. The engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract was signed with Sandow Lakes Energy Company (SLEC) in February 2025. This facility, designed to supply electricity to 800,000 homes, is set to start construction in the summer of 2025 and is expected to be fully operational by 2028.


The plant is expected to power 800,000 homes.

The project stems from SLEC’s March 2025 announcement to build the plant, which will be managed by one of its subsidiaries. It will operate within the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, addressing the region’s growing energy needs. Charles E Collins IV, CEO of Gemma, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration: “We’re thrilled to move forward with SLEC on this major power project. Their strong development efforts set the stage for success, and we look forward to working together. Expanding power infrastructure is essential to meeting rising energy demands, and our team is dedicated to delivering exceptional results.”

The power station will utilize a combined cycle design, incorporating two Siemens Energy SGT6-9000HL gas turbines. These turbines are noted for their high efficiency and output, with the added capability to run on hydrogen with minimal adjustments, supporting efforts to reduce carbon emissions. Located near the Matterhorn natural gas pipeline, the plant benefits from a reliable fuel supply, enhancing its operational efficiency.

SLEC, established to develop energy initiatives in Texas, is responding to the state’s increasing demand for electricity. The Sandow Lakes project is now part of Argan’s backlog, reflecting its focus on construction and related services for the power sector. Gemma brings extensive expertise, having contributed to 15 GW of installed capacity across various energy projects, including natural gas, biomass, solar, wind, and biofuel facilities.

This development underscores a commitment to meeting energy demands through advanced infrastructure. The plant’s completion in 2028 will bolster Texas’ power grid, providing a stable and efficient energy source for the region. With its strategic location and modern turbine technology, the facility aligns with both immediate energy needs and longer-term sustainability objectives, positioning it as a key contributor to the state’s energy landscape.

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