TVA to Replace Kingston Facility with State-of-the-Art Energy Center

In the wake of an extensive multi-year public deliberation, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) has reached a significant decision: the retirement of its Kingston Fossil Plant and the establishment of a cutting-edge energy complex at the same location by the culmination of 2027. TVA President and CEO Jeff Lyash underscored the historical significance of Kingston, asserting its integral role in the region's prosperity over seven decades. Lyash further emphasized the strategic shift towards more dependable, resilient, and environmentally friendly technologies, characterizing the transition as imperative for future energy security.

The retirement plan entails the decommissioning of the nine coal-fired units at Kingston by the end of 2027. In their stead, TVA aims to construct an energy complex incorporating a minimum of 1,500 megawatts of combined cycle and dual-fuel Aeroderivative natural gas combustion turbines. Additionally, the complex will integrate 100 megawatts of battery storage and up to 4 megawatts of solar generation, marking a pioneering initiative within TVA's portfolio. Notably, the natural gas generation will be operational prior to the Kingston Fossil Plant's retirement, ensuring uninterrupted power supply to customers.

This strategic decision stems from a meticulous public process guided by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), facilitating extensive public engagement and evaluation of viable alternatives.

Allen Clare, TVA's senior vice president for Power Operations, characterized the energy complex as the most cost-effective solution, offering both flexibility and reliability within the stipulated timeline for replacement generation deployment.

TVA boasts one of the nation's most expansive, diverse, and environmentally conscious energy systems, encompassing nuclear, solar, hydro, gas, and advanced technologies. Noteworthy achievements include a remarkable 57% reduction in mass carbon emissions since 2005, with further plans to achieve an 80% reduction by 2035. The ambitious agenda includes the addition of 10,000 megawatts of solar energy by 2035, positioning TVA as a frontrunner in the clean energy domain.

Acknowledging the ongoing quest for a carbon-free energy future, Lyash emphasized the multifaceted approach required, encompassing the expansion of solar and wind energy, alongside the development of emerging technologies such as energy storage, carbon capture, low-carbon fuels, and advanced nuclear technologies. Emphasizing TVA's pivotal role in spearheading these initiatives, Lyash highlighted the organization's unique position to drive progress in decarbonization endeavors.

Situated in Roane County, Tennessee, the Kingston Fossil Plant's nine coal-fired units have historically generated up to 1,398 megawatts of electricity, catering to approximately 818,000 households. Jeff Kickert, Kingston plant manager, expressed pride in the team's accomplishments in navigating evolving environmental regulations and operational demands, affirming Kingston's continued significance until its slated retirement.

In tandem with the evolution of TVA's generation mix, the organization is committed to supporting its employees in navigating career transitions. A comprehensive workforce plan has been devised to preserve coal plant expertise and facilitate opportunities for employees to explore alternative career paths within TVA or transition to other technologies. Kris Edmondson, TVA's vice president of Power Operations, outlined the plan's provisions, including skillset-based transfers, training initiatives, and retirement support.

Looking ahead, TVA remains committed to evaluating the remaining coal fleet for retirement and replacement generation. Anticipating the phased retirement of its entire coal fleet by the mid-2030s, TVA aims to bolster a clean energy ecosystem conducive to operational, economic, and environmental sustainability.