News Summary
The sale of Entergy’s gas distribution business to Delta Utilities has received final approval from the East Baton Rouge Parish, transferring natural gas rights in Baton Rouge. This transition, anticipated for late summer 2025, affects 95,000 service connections as Entergy prepares to focus solely on its electric utility operations. Delta Utilities commits to maintaining current rates for 15 months while ensuring a smooth transition and investment in the local workforce, aiming to enhance service reliability.
Baton Rouge, Louisiana – Entergy’s Sale of Gas Distribution Business Receives Final Approval
Entergy’s sale of its gas distribution business to Delta Utilities has received the green light from the East Baton Rouge Parish. This significant transaction includes the transfer of Entergy’s natural gas franchise rights within the City of Baton Rouge and is expected to finalize with a switchover date anticipated for late summer 2025.
The gas distribution operations involved in the sale serve approximately 95,000 homes and businesses in the Baton Rouge area. Previously, Entergy’s gas distribution business in New Orleans catered to around 109,000 homes and businesses, further highlighting the scale of the transaction.
As part of the transition, Entergy will continue to manage gas distribution operations to ensure safety and reliability until the official switchover date. Collaboration with Delta Utilities will be essential during this period, and both companies have committed to keeping customers informed about updates regarding the transition in the upcoming months. Customers currently do not need to take any action, as existing natural gas services will remain unaffected.
Operational Changes and Future Commitments
The successful completion of the sale allows Entergy to focus exclusively on its regulated electric utility business, which serves over 1 million customers across 58 parishes in Louisiana. Conversely, Delta Utilities aims to uphold Entergy’s existing rates for a period of fifteen months following the transaction, with no immediate plans to raise rates.
Delta Utilities’ CEO has expressed the company’s commitment to safety, reliability, and investment in the local workforce. These commitments are expected to contribute positively to the New Orleans community as Delta outlines plans to create new job opportunities and invest in local infrastructure.
Regulatory Approval and Community Impact
All necessary approvals for the transaction have been successfully secured. The Louisiana Public Service Commission, East Baton Rouge Parish Metropolitan Council, and New Orleans City Council have all authorized the sale, marking a collaborative effort among regulatory bodies.
Since 2018, Entergy has made significant contributions to local communities, with over $100 million allocated annually to various initiatives aimed at enhancing community welfare. Delta Utilities appears poised to continue this legacy by focusing on local investments and ensuring that the transition is as smooth as possible for customers.
Conclusion
The upcoming transition of Entergy’s gas distribution business to Delta Utilities marks a pivotal moment in Louisiana’s energy landscape. With effective collaboration, a clear commitment to customer service, and focused investment in local communities, both companies are preparing for a change that aims to enhance reliability and service in natural gas distribution for Baton Rouge residents and businesses.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Entergy Newsroom
- Wikipedia: Natural gas distribution
- Daily Energy Insider
- Google Search: Entergy gas distribution business sale
- Business Report
- Google Scholar: Entergy Delta Utilities
- The Advocate
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Natural gas industry
- Utility Dive
- Google News: Delta Utilities Entergy sale
