The agency has completed a draft environmental assessment to identify potential impacts of alternative technologies being assessed for the coal plant.
TVA plans to install emission controls or close Allen Fossil Plant’s coal units by December 2018 as per an agreement with the US Environmental Protection Agency signed in 2001.
TVA intends to reduce emissions in its coal-fired generating fleet and as part of the deal, the agency is currently in the process of identifying suitable step, including closing some coal units.
The public comment period will run until 5 August 2014.
TVA purchased the Allen Fossil plant in 1984 which was completed by Memphis Light, Gas and Water in 1959.
The existing plant features three coal-fired units that generate about 4.8 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity a year, enough to supply 340,000 homes.
TVA offers electricity for business customers and local power distributors serving 9 million people in parts of seven southeastern states.
Image: The existing plant features three coal-fired units. Photo: Courtesy of Tennessee Valley Authority.
