TVA requests public comments on solar environmental assessment draft
The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) requested public comments on Wednesday on a draft environmental assessment regarding a proposed power purchase agreement with a newly planned solar generating facility seeking approval for construction.
Silicon Ranch Corp. proposed the construction of a new 20-megawatt solar facility. The facility, which would be called the Selmer North I Solar Project, would be built on 99 acres near Selmer, Tennessee, in McNairy County. The facility would use photovoltaic solar technology and would connect to the TVA transmission system through the Pickwick Electric Cooperative infrastructure.
If the proposal is approved, the TVA would purchase 20 megawatts of power for a duration of 20 years. The proposal is pending based on the outcome of the environmental assessment.
The TVA’s published draft of the environmental assessment outlines both the expected environmental impact of the construction and operation of the facility. The draft includes the anticipated impact of the facility’s connection to the electric grid. The TVA is seeking public comments through August 26. The documents for review are available on the TVA website.
The TVA is a corporate electric agency that provides power to businesses and local power distributors. It serves nine million people across seven southeastern states. The company also provides flood control, land management and navigation for the Tennessee River System, and works with local stakeholders to improve the economy.
