Cheatham County Generation Site EIS Scoping Report
Appendix C Summary of Scoping Comments
Tennessee Valley Authority
Dear Ms. Johnson:
I am shocked, saddened, and quite frankly, angry to learn the Lockertsville Road property is slated to become a methane gas producing energy site. I am a long time resident of the area with a small organic farm on Macon Wall Road. My focus is organic herbs and flowers and I have dedicated acreage for pollinators and wildlife. My property has several springs and a small creek that feeds into the Sycamore Creek. The proposed location is directly across the road from me, and I am opposed to this site being used for Methane Gas. I recognize my comments, questions and concerns may seem elementary to those of you in the “industry", but this is my life, my children's lives, my grandchildren's lives, and my land I’m defending here, and the TVA has been less than forthcoming with its plans and information regarding this site. We know Methane gas plants are associated with significant greenhouse gas emissions, primarily in the form of carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4). Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, with a much higher global warming potential than CO2. The extraction, production, and combustion of methane contribute to climate change and exacerbate global warming. Investing in renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydroelectric power would be a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative. Methane gas plants can release air pollutants during their operation, including nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These pollutants contribute to smog formation, respiratory issues, and air quality degradation, which can have negative impacts on human health and ecosystems and I am extremely concerned about the potential healthrisks posed by living in close proximity to this proposed plant as well as the risks to the environment. Methane gas plants require significant amounts of water for cooling and other processes. Water withdrawal can deplete local water sources, affecting aquatic ecosystems and water availability for other uses. Additionally, improper storage or handling of wastewater generated during gas extraction and production processes can lead to water contamination. This project has the potential to put pressure on local water sources, particularly in areas where water scarcity is already a concern. While I am connected to East Montgomery Utilities for my water, many of my neighbors are on well water. I am concerned about the potential contamination of water sources due to the construction and operation of this project. Methane gas plants involve complex infrastructure and handling processes. There is a risk of accidents such as explosions, leaks, or fires, which could pose a threat to nearby communities, workers, and the environment. Regardless of potential mitigation tactics, these risks are unacceptable and TVA investing in safer and more sustainable energy options would be a wiser choice. I feel the TVA has failed in its due diligence about the treasured natural resources of this area and failed to consider its residents prior to the purchase of this land, and this project is moving us backwards. For your spokesperson Scott Brooks, to publicly state that we need more methane production to get us to solar is completely asinine. Methane gas plants rely on the extraction and burning of fossil fuels, contributing to ongoing fossil fuel dependence. We need a massive shift towards renewable energy sources that are more sustainable and have a lower environmental impact, not cling to antiquated, finite fossil fuels. You are the nation’s leading power producer and I am extremely disappointed in your methane gas binge across the state. Exactly when was it determined this property would be best used as a Methane Gas plant and why are we not embracing and moving forward with solar energy? The presence of a methane gas plant near a community or a school can have social and psychological impacts on the community. Concerns about health risks, safety, and potential environmental impacts are leading to community anxiety and discontent. This project hasn’t even begun yet and I'm already losing sleep over it. The proposed plant is central within a few miles of all three of our area schools; West Cheatham Elementary, Cheatham Middle School, and Cheatham Central High School. My child currently attends West Cheatham, 1st grade, and will be continuing on through our school system. That's 11 more years. Perception of such facilities near residential areas and schools can affect community relationships, property values, and the overall image of the area. Additionally, there is a potential risk of increased air pollution in the vicinity, which can have negative health impacts on students, teachers, and staff. Exposure to air pollutants can lead to respiratory issues, exacerbate existing respiratory conditions, and affect overall well-being. We know methane gas is a fossil fuel primarily composed of methane (CH4) extracted from natural gas reserves or produced from organic waste. It’s a non-renewable resource, but Solar energy is obtained from sunlight using photovoltaic (PV) panels or solar thermal systems and is a renewable energy source. Your plans make no sense. Burning methane gas releases carbon dioxide (CO2) and other pollutants into the atmosphere, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Methane itself is a potent greenhouse gas. Solar energy has minimal environmental impact once the solar panels are manufactured. It produces no greenhouse gas emissions during electricity generation, helping to reduce carbon footprints and combat climate change. The availability of methane gas depends on natural gas reserves, which are finite. It requires extraction and distribution infrastructure, as well as ongoing access to reserves. Solar energy is abundant and available worldwide as long as there is sunlight. It does not rely on finite resources and can be harnessed through individual solar installations or large- scale solar farms. As a non-renewable resource, the use of methane gas contributes to resource depletion. It requires continuous extraction and exploration efforts to maintain supply. Solar energy is sustainable and renewable since sunlight is an inexhaustible resource, and current estimates state the sun will be around for at least another 7 or 8 billion years, so I think it’s a safe bet it can be harnessed for the foreseeable future without depleting natural resources. Methane gas power plants are often connected to centralized power grids, requiring extensive transmission and distribution infrastructure. They depend on a network to deliver electricity to end-users whereas solar energy can be harnessed at the point of consumption, making it suitable for both grid-tied and off-grid applications. Solar installations can be decentralized, reducing reliance on long-distance transmission and promoting energy self- sufficiency. The cost of methane gas is subject to market fluctuations and extraction costs. It may require significant investments in exploration, drilling, and additional infrastructure. The cost of solar energy has been significantly decreasing in recent years, driven by technological advancements, economies of scale, and government incentives. Solar panels have become more affordable and accessible for both residential and commercial applications. It's important to consider these factors when evaluating the benefits and drawbacks of different energy sources. While methane gas is a fossil fuel that contributes to climate change, solar energy offers a sustainable and renewable alternative with lower environmental impact andincreasing cost competitiveness.
Comments and questions for the Tennessee Valley Authority’s Scoping Notice Regarding Cheatham County Generation Site_000001
7/7/2023
negative
Tracy A.
O'Neill
37015
Comments and questions for the Tennessee Valley Authority’s Scoping Notice Regarding Cheatham County Generation Site_000002
7/7/2023
negative
Tracy A.
O'Neill
37015
Page 66 of 133
Made with FlippingBook - Online Brochure Maker