Utility representatives from Entergy Arkansas shared updates on energy initiatives and infrastructure plans during the City-County Connections meeting in Batesville on Thursday night. Hosted at The River restaurant, the event featured Entergy's regional manager Chris Wasson and customer service manager Todd Welter as guest speakers.
Entergy Arkansas is preparing to address an anticipated 35% increase in electricity demand across the state over the next five years, Wasson told attendees. Key to meeting that demand will be the company’s "Next Generation Arkansas" plan, which focuses on grid reliability and economic growth. Wasson noted the changes are crucial as Arkansas continues to attract new residents, drawn by its affordable living, outdoor amenities, and community-oriented lifestyle, according to the Arkansas Economic Development Commission.
Welter highlighted Entergy's efforts to modernize its energy operations. New technologies like drone-assisted inspections and targeted tree trimming are helping the utility proactively identify and prevent power disruptions. He also detailed Entergy’s plans for decommissioning coal-burning power plants, including the Newark facility in 2030 and the White Bluff plant in 2028. These older plants will be replaced or repurposed with more sustainable energy sources, such as natural gas facilities, pending feasibility studies with the Arkansas Public Service Commission.
Significant investments in new energy generation projects are also underway. Welter announced the groundbreaking of Ironwood Power Station near Malvern, a 450-megawatt natural gas plant—the first new power station built by Entergy in Arkansas in over 50 years. Plans are in place for another natural gas plant in Jefferson County, with a 750-megawatt capacity, alongside a 600-megawatt solar facility in the same region. Welter emphasized Entergy’s diverse energy portfolio, which already includes hydroelectric, solar, and nuclear power, though Arkansas currently lacks wind energy in its mix.
A highlight of the discussion was Entergy’s free Home Energy Solutions program, which helps customers increase energy efficiency in their homes. Services include sealing doors and windows, insulation upgrades, duct repairs, and air conditioner tune-ups. “They assessed my home and added six inches of insulation to my attic at no cost," Wasson said of his own experience with the program. The service is available for renters and homeowners in single-family residences, mobile homes, and apartments. More information can be obtained by emailing HomeEnergySolutionsEAL@icf.com or calling 866-627-9177.
Addressing affordability, Wasson cited regulatory consumer protection caps set by the Arkansas Public Service Commission, which ensure that Entergy’s rates remain at least 10% below the national average. The company’s "Fair Share Plus" initiative aims to make large power consumers, such as data centers, bear a proportionate cost of infrastructure investments.
In addition to energy updates, Batesville Mayor Rick Elumbaugh provided a city update during the meeting. He discussed ongoing public works projects, including completion of a major drainage project on Hawkins Street and progress on the water treatment plant, which promises to meet the community’s water needs for the next 50 years once completed. He also highlighted the Riverside Park expansion, set to finish in December 2026, featuring new pickleball courts, a skate park, and other amenities.
Looking ahead, Elumbaugh announced a shift to drive-through-only holiday light displays at Riverside Park due to traffic and logistical concerns from the previous year. The White River Express will not operate this year, but other favorite attractions will remain, including the light tunnel and Santa Claus appearances near The River.
The next City-County Connections meeting is scheduled for October 1 at the Batesville Community Center.