OMAHA - The Omaha Public Power District (OPPD) is facing significant power capacity constraints that could limit economic development, business expansion and job growth in the Omaha region. OPPD projects it will have fewer than 100 megawatts of available capacity for new or expanding large customers over the next several years, raising concerns about its ability to accommodate energy-intensive industries such as data centers and manufacturing facilities. OPPD President and CEO Javier Fernandez warned that developments requiring as little as two megawatts could face challenges, although the utility maintains sufficient capacity for normal residential and commercial growth. Rising electricity demand, aging grid infrastructure and local opposition to renewable energy projects have further complicated efforts to expand capacity. While OPPD continues to prioritize growth in sectors such as defense and healthcare, the limitations could make it more difficult for Nebraska to attract major employers and remain economically competitive.

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