NEWARK, NJ — The New York State Board on Electric Generation and the Environment has granted a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Need for PSEG Power New York's (PSEGNY) Bethlehem Energy Center (BEC), a state-of-the-art, 750-MW natural gas-fired combined-cycle power plant.

The $400 million project will replace the existing 400-MW Albany Steam Station located in nearby Bethlehem, NY. The new plant is expected to begin commercial operation in 2004 at which time the existing station will be retired.

PSEGNY is a subsidiary of PSEG Power, one of the country’s largest independent power producers and energy trading companies.

The BEC project will redevelop the existing Albany Steam Station site and replace its 1950’s technology with a state-of-the-art, clean, efficient facility that will almost double the energy output of the site while reducing air and water environmental impact.

The facility will be among the cleanest power plants in New York, reducing emission rates of nitrogen oxide and sulfur dioxide by 97-98%. It will also reduce use of Hudson River water for cooling by 98-99% in comparison to the existing plant. In addition, the project will produce economic benefits in terms of construction spending, jobs, and increased business activity over the long term.

The project has generated community support and has been endorsed by environmental organizations including the American Lung Association of New York, Natural Resources Defense Council, Hudson River Keeper, and Scenic Hudson Inc.

Publication date: 06/03/2002