Mayor Thompson on 1.2 Billion Entergy investment

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Mayor Willis Thompson praised Entergy Mississippi’s plan to build the Vicksburg Advanced Power Station as a major milestone for Vicksburg and Warren County’s economic future—one that will create hundreds of jobs, generate millions in local investment, and position Vicksburg as a leader in modern, efficient energy production for the region.

The $1.2 billion facility, which will rise on the site of the former Baxter Wilson plant, represents the next phase of Entergy’s “Superpower Mississippi” initiative—the largest grid upgrade in the company’s history. Once complete, the 754-megawatt natural-gas-fueled plant will supply cleaner, more efficient, and more cost-effective power to nearly half a million Entergy Mississippi customers.

“Vicksburg has powered Mississippi’s growth for generations, and this investment ensures that we’ll continue doing so for generations to come,” said Mayor Thompson. “This project means more than 500 direct construction jobs, dozens of permanent operations positions, and countless indirect opportunities for suppliers, service companies, and local businesses that support them.”

Entergy’s new advanced-cycle technology will replace older, less-efficient plants and is designed to support blended hydrogen fuel in the future—aligning with the mayor’s broader push to make Vicksburg a hub for innovation, advanced manufacturing, and clean technology.

“Every day, we’re working to make Vicksburg the best place in Mississippi to live, work, and invest,” Thompson said. “When global companies choose to reinvest here, it tells the world that Vicksburg is serious about efficiency, infrastructure, and economic resilience. The benefits of this plant will ripple through every sector of our community—from restaurants and retailers to construction trades and engineering firms.”

Entergy officials estimate the project will help customers statewide avoid a 16 percent increase in future bills through fuel savings and efficiency improvements. For Vicksburg, the plant’s construction will bring over $1 billion in capital investment and strengthen the city’s appeal to large-scale employers seeking reliable power and a skilled workforce.

“Thanks to partnerships with Governor Reeves, the Mississippi Public Service Commission, and local leadership here in Warren County, this project is proof that when we align our goals, we can deliver results that power both economic opportunity and quality of life,” Thompson added. “Vicksburg is ready to keep leading Mississippi forward.”

Construction will begin in the coming months, with completion expected in several years. Entergy Mississippi will employ approximately 21 workers to operate the plant once online.