A recent article in the Austin Business Journal announced that Austin Energy's Sand Hill Energy Center—in eastern Travis County—will undergo $60 million in expansions. The planed expansion comes in the wake of recent news that Holly Power Plant in East Austin will close in late September.

Two 50 megawatt turbines will be added in the next two years, with the modified 747 jet engines generating power in about 10 minutes for electricity demand peaks during inclement weather. The plant's total load capacity will subsequently increase from 180 to 280 megawatts, bringing the Sand Hill Center's total capacity to 580 megawatts; a significant increase that is capable of powering 435,000 homes.

The expansions are covered by Austin Energy's capital reserves, so there is no concern for rate- plan increases. Since peak demand in Austin leaves only 17 percent in the energy reserves, the expansion should add to the total energy capacity of 2,900 megawatts that Austin Energy currently has.