Our Energy
Tennessee has a unique history of energy production and development. The Manhattan Project and the development of the atomic bomb was located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee in the eastern part of the state. The Oak Ridge area continues to be impacted by the effects of producing these weapons. Tennessee is also home to the Tennessee Valley Authority, the nations largest federally owned energy provider, today TVA is transitioning much of its focus to nuclear power production, as well as hydroelectric power. A low carbon future is possible in Tennessee and we can all help transition Tennessee to renewable energy.
|
|
|
Energy Source and Production
To understand what our state's energy related footprint looks like, we need to understand the relationship between energy and electricity. Electricity is just one way that energy is supplied; in other words: electricity is energy but energy isn't always electricity. Tennessee generates a large amount of electricity from dams using hydroelectric power and from nuclear power plants. So although we do produce a fair amount of low carbon energy we continue to consume much more high carbon energy sources.
|
|
Tennessee's two nuclear power plants provided 44% of in-state electricity in 2019 - Energy Information Administration
Get Involved
Energy consumption and production oftentimes feels like a difficult mountain to climb as an individual, however you can make change in the clean energy world. You can make small changes in your daily life that help lessen your energy consumption - bike to work, take public transportation, and use energy saving appliances in your home. On a statewide front you can get involved with various organizations doing work in this area, check out the list of resources below to learn more.