SPP to add 190 jobs with $150 million expansion

Little Rock-based regional transmission operator Southwest Power Pool (SPP) is expanding services with a $150 million project for expanding and strengthening the electric grid.

By the end of 2027, SPP projects it will create about 190 new engineering, IT, market administration, and support jobs, including about 165 in Little Rock, as part of the expansion.

“SPP is proud that our employee base, as well as the reach and value of our services are all growing as a result of our expansion into the western part of the country,” said SPP CEO Lanny Nickell. “We’re already well respected in the energy industry for our expertise in more affordably keeping the lights on across our region extending from Texas to North Dakota. Soon, consumers in a broader region throughout the West will also count on us to ensure dependable, affordable provision of wholesale energy.”

Founded in 1941, Southwest Power Pool is a nonprofit regional transmission organization (RTO) that is mandated to ensure reliable supplies of power, adequate transmission infrastructure, and competitive wholesale electricity prices on behalf of its members. Southwest Power Pool is headquartered in Little Rock at 201 Worthen Drive.

“As the workforce grows, so does the demand for reliable, affordable energy for families and businesses,” said Gov. Sarah Sanders. “Southwest Power Pool’s continued investment reflects the role Arkansas plays in supporting critical infrastructure, keeping communities powered and businesses moving. Their investment in Little Rock strengthens the operational backbone that makes this work possible and reinforces Arkansas’ place in the national energy landscape.”

Economic developers contend that meeting energy needs for new and expanding projects is critical for Arkansas’ commercial development. In the last regular session, state lawmakers passed major legislation aimed at enhancing Arkansas’ energy infrastructure.