Major Energy Storage Initiative Set to Energize Tennessee by 2029
The ambitious Bobwhite Energy Storage project, spearheaded by Bobwhite Energy Storage, a subsidiary of Tenaska, is gearing up to bolster energy reliability in East Tennessee. This groundbreaking venture involves a 225-megawatt/900-megawatt hour storage facility and is backed by a long-term partnership with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), the largest public power provider in the United States.
The Bobwhite project, which is currently in advanced development stages in Hawkins County, is scheduled to commence construction in 2027, with operations expected to begin by the end of 2029. This 20-year agreement with TVA is an integral part of the authority’s strategy to enhance grid reliability, manage peak demand, and integrate additional resources to ensure affordable electricity for American households. The initiative also aims to fortify the nation’s energy independence and provide communities with dependable power to foster economic growth.
TVA Vice President, Power Supply & Fuels, Monika Beckner, emphasized the importance of battery storage, stating, “Battery storage is essential to protecting the reliable, affordable electricity our region depends on to power next-generation technologies.” She continued, “Projects like Bobwhite strengthen the Valley’s energy security, increase our ability to manage extreme conditions and help unleash American energy – building a resilient system that supports families, drives economic growth and reinforces America’s energy dominance.”
With this latest agreement, TVA has committed to 425 megawatts of standalone battery energy storage systems across its expansive seven-state service area. John Hejkal, Vice President, Origination & Development at Tenaska, highlighted the project’s strategic importance by noting, “This project exemplifies Tenaska’s ability to strategically site and develop high-value energy projects that consider grid challenges and market needs.” He added that the Bobwhite project aligns with TVA’s objective to maintain a stable and reliable electric grid in response to growing customer demand.
Tenaska, headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, has a robust track record, having developed approximately 14,000 megawatts of natural gas-fueled and renewable power projects. The company’s development portfolio spans over 33,000 megawatts of energy projects, including 7,000 megawatts of battery storage solutions.
Economically, the Bobwhite project is projected to inject approximately $300 million into the local economy, generating up to 75 jobs during peak construction. The initiative prioritizes recruiting skilled workers from nearby communities, aligning with TVA’s commitment to investing in the local workforce and fostering regional growth. Additionally, the project will open avenues for local businesses to participate in providing goods and services, ensuring that economic benefits remain within the community.
About Tenaska
Tenaska is a prominent energy company with operations spanning the full energy value chain. Tenaska Marketing Ventures (TMV) and Tenaska Power Services Co. (TPS) are leading natural gas and electric power marketing companies in North America. With a fleet of 6,622 megawatts of natural gas and renewable generating facilities, Tenaska has developed, managed, and operated over 23,000 megawatts of generation. The company is advancing more than 33,000 megawatts of energy projects, including natural gas, carbon capture, energy storage, and renewables. For more information, visit Tenaska.com.
About TVA
The Tennessee Valley Authority is the largest public power supplier in the U.S., serving over 10 million people in seven southeastern states. With a diverse energy system, including nuclear, hydro, coal, gas, solar, and advanced technologies, TVA is investing significantly in its power infrastructure. As a corporate agency of the United States, TVA operates without taxpayer funding, deriving nearly all its revenue from electricity sales. TVA boasts some of the lowest energy costs and highest reliability nationwide, with residential and industrial rates lower than those of most top U.S. utilities. Additionally, TVA provides flood control, navigation, and land management for the Tennessee River system, supporting local power companies and governments in economic development and job creation. Learn more at tva.com.
Media Contact
Timberly Ross (Tenaska)
402-691-9517
[email protected]
Scott Fiedler (TVA)
423-751-7883
[email protected]
Original Story at www.prnewswire.com