In a move to strengthen grid reliability across its Southwest service territory, Xcel Energy has purchased 10 large gas turbines and associated generation equipment from Siemens Energy to support the construction of two new power plants. The investment responds to rising electric demand and the planned retirement of Xcel’s Tolk Station coal facility.
The new plants will provide a combined 2088 megawatts (MW) of dispatchable generation, offering flexible, on-demand power during peak usage and periods of market volatility.
At Tolk Station in Muleshoe, Texas, Xcel will retire its coal plant and install five Siemens SGT6-5000F gas turbines paired with five SGen6-1000A generators, delivering 928 MW of backup energy to enhance grid stability.
A new peaker plant in Gaines County will feature five additional F-class turbines and five generators, adding 1160 MW of fully dispatchable capacity for rapid electricity generation during high-demand periods.
“These projects are part of a broader portfolio that includes 17 new power initiatives and more than 5000 megawatts of added capacity by 2030,” said Adrian J. Rodriguez, president of Xcel Energy – Texas and New Mexico. “We are investing in a balanced energy mix to deliver reliable service while supporting economic growth across the region.”
The first turbine deliveries are expected in early 2026, with commercial operations aligned to meet the Southwest Power Pool’s regional planning reserve requirements.
Siemens Energy’s SGT6-5000F gas turbines are designed for fast start-up, quick load changes, and efficient emissions performance, suitable for peak, intermediate, or baseload applications.
