Tennessee Valley Authority
Coverage of Tennessee Valley Authority in the Nexus archive.
- The nation’s biggest public utility just doubled down on coal, gas, and nuclear
The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is shifting its energy plan to prioritize coal, gas, and nuclear power over renewables, influenced by Trump administration policies. Recent changes include delayed closures of coal plants and stalled renewable incentives, sparking public and environmental group opposition.
- New report warns of rising electricity costs in TN as demand for data centers grow
A new report from ThinkTennessee highlights a sevenfold increase in data center electricity consumption in the Tennessee Valley region between 2020 and 2025, leading to rising residential electricity costs and grid reliability concerns. Tennessee now accounts for 16.7% of active data center construction in emerging markets, with households bearing the largest cost increases. Public opposition to data center development in Nashville has led to stricter local regulations.
- Snake knocks out power to thousands in North Nashville during heat wave
A snake damaged a substation in North Nashville, causing a power outage for over 7,000 Nashville Electric Service customers during a heat wave. Power was restored within 30 minutes, but residents faced discomfort due to high temperatures. The Tennessee Valley Authority reported electricity demand remains below record levels.
- Tennessee’s air pollution is about to get worse. TVA’s fossil fuel lawsuit explained
Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) plans to continue operating its Cumberland Fossil Plant despite previous retirement schedules, prompting a lawsuit from the Southern Environmental Law Center (SELC) over Clean Air Act violations. The combined operation of the coal and new gas plants is projected to release significant pollutants linked to health risks.
- Trump admin’s coal investments assist plants with repeated violations
The Trump administration's coal investments have extended the lifespan of the Cumberland Fossil Plant in Tennessee, which has a history of pollution violations. The Tennessee Valley Authority reversed its plan to close the plant after the administration replaced four board members and secured a $46 million federal pledge.
- Thousands sign petition for 18-month moratorium on data centers in Lawrence County amid facility proposal
Thousands of residents in Lawrence County, Tennessee, have signed a petition demanding an 18-month moratorium on data centers to allow for public review and infrastructure impact assessments. The petition follows a proposed 60,000-square-foot data center near Flatwoods Road and highlights concerns about resource demands and effects on the local Amish community. Lawrence County Executive David Morgan confirmed the county was not involved in prior negotiations with the data center developers.