J.K. Spruce Unit 2, CPS Energy’s newest coal-fired power plant, returned to service on December 8 following repairs to the plant’s main power transformer. A monitoring device was installed on the transformer, and CPS Energy has continued to evaluate its performance.

CPS Energy opted to take the plant offline in September when testing revealed a problem with the Hyundai-manufactured transformer that provides power to nearby substations via high-voltage power lines.

After it was returned to service December 8, other operational issues were identified, including boiler tube leaks. The unit was offline again for a short period, while additional repairs were made. The repairs are covered by warranty.

Spruce 2 was re-started December 21, and CPS Energy—working in conjunction with the construction contractor, Calaveras Power Partners (CPP)—continues to monitor operations closely. This monitoring is common for new power plants that have not yet reached normal daily operations, and the plant may be offline intermittently during this period.

During this period, CPS Energy has easily met the electric demand of Greater San Antonio, thanks to sufficient power plant resources and mostly mild weather.

Construction of Spruce 2 was completed in early 2010, and the plant was operated continuously by CPS Energy from May through the end of August 2010.