Cheatham County Generation Site EIS Scoping Report
Appendix C Summary of Scoping Comments
Tennessee Valley Authority
Solar Power: The transition to solar energy creates new job opportunities and fosters economic growth and I don’t understand why this isn’t a priority of the TVA. Solar energy projects require skilled labor for installation, operation, and maintenance. The solar industry has been a significant source of employment, supporting a wide range of jobs, from manufacturing and construction to sales and installation. Additionally, local solar projects can contribute to the growth of the renewable energy sector. By investing in renewable energy, communities can benefit from the expansion of a clean energy sector and drive economic development. Solar energy systems generally require less maintenance compared to methane gas plants, as they have no moving parts. Regular cleaning of solar panels and occasional inverter replacements are the primary maintenance activities. In contrast, methane gas plants require ongoing maintenance and monitoring of equipment, pipelines, and storage facilities. Solar energy systems generate electricity without releasing air pollutants such as sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), or particulate matter. By avoiding the combustion of fossil fuels, solar power helps improve air quality and reduces respiratory issues and other health concerns associated with air pollution, further reducing reliance on fossil fuel-based electricity generation and mitigating the carbon footprint associated with power production. Solar power generally requires minimal water usage once the panels are installed. Unlike methane gas plants, solar energy systems do not rely on water for cooling or other operational processes. This reduces the strain on water resources and helps conserve this valuable resource. Solar energy systems can be easily scaled up or down based on energy demands. They are suitable for various applications, from small residential installations to large utility-scale solar farms. This scalability allows for greater flexibility in meeting energy needs and adapting to changing requirements. Advances in solar panel efficiency, energy storage technologies, and grid integration have improved the overall performance and reliability of solar energy systems. This innovation can drive down costs further and increase the overall efficiency and effectiveness of solar power generation. Solar panels can be installed on various types of land, including rooftops, parking lots, and non-arable land. Solar power systems can coexist with existing land uses without causing significant habitat disturbance or land conversion. Proper land management practices, such as implementing pollinator-friendly solar projects, can also enhance biodiversity and support local ecosystems. Solar energy has experienced significant cost reductions in recent years, making it increasingly competitive with fossil fuels. The levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems has declined dramatically, making it one of the most cost- effective sources of new electricity generation. Fossil fuel-based electricity generation, on the other hand, can be subject to price volatility due to fluctuations in fuel prices. The growth of the solar industry has stimulated technological innovation and increased competitiveness. Solar energy offers significant environmental benefits over fossil fuels. Solar power generation produces no greenhouse gas emissions during operation, contributing to mitigating climate change. Additionally, solar energy reduces air pollution, water usage, and the negative impacts of extraction and transportation associated with fossil fuels. These environmental benefits can lead to long-term cost savings and improved public health outcomes. Upgrading solar panels or adding energy storage systems can enhance the performance and extend the usefulness of existing solar installations. This flexibility allows for the integration of new technologies as they become available. The overall trend suggests that solar energy presents significant economic opportunities and advantages compared to fossil fuels, both in terms of cost competitiveness and long-term sustainability. Overall, solar power has significantly lower environmental impacts compared to methane gas plants. Solar energy helps mitigate climate change, reduces air pollution, conserves water resources, and minimizes habitat disturbance. These environmental benefits make solar power an environmentally sustainable and preferred choice for clean energy generation.
Comments and questions for the Tennessee Valley Authority’s Scoping Notice Regarding Cheatham County Generation Site_000003
7/7/2023
negative
Tracy A.
O'Neill
37015
Why we should provide incentives for residential solar installation in Tennessee There are several compelling reasons to provide incentives for residential solar installation in Tennessee:
Encouraging energy efficiency and residential solar installation can stimulate local economic growth and job creation. The solar industry provides opportunities for skilled labor, including solar panel installation, maintenance, and sales. By supporting the growth of residential solar, Tennessee can attract solar companies, create local jobs, and boost the economy. Investing in residential solar helps reduce dependence on imported energy sources. By generating clean, renewable energy locally, Tennessee can enhance its energy independence and security. This reduces vulnerability to fluctuations in fossil fuel prices and geopolitical risks associated with energy imports. By assisting homeowners with energy efficient upgrades like siding, windows and roofing as well as residential solar installation, the TVA can reduce energy demand, promote clean energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Solar power produces electricity without generating air pollution or carbon dioxide emissions, which contribute to climate change. By incentivizing solar, Tennessee can contribute to a cleaner environment and reduce its carbon footprint. Solar energy can help homeowners reduce their electricity bills. Installing solar panels allows residents to generate their own electricity and offset some or all of their energy consumption from the grid. By reducing monthly utility costs, solar power can make energy more affordable and provide long-term savings for homeowners. Distributed residential solar installations enhance grid resilience and energy security. During power outages or natural disasters, homes with solar panels can continue to generate electricity and provide critical power for essential appliances. This reduces the strain on the grid and helps communities recover faster. Investing in residential solar can provide long-term cost savings for homeowners. Although there are upfront costs associated with installation, solar systems have a lifespan of 25-30 years or more. Over time, homeowners can recoup their investment through reduced electricity bills and potentially even sell excess energy back to the grid. By providing incentives for residential solar installation, Tennessee can demonstrate environmental leadership and commitment to clean energy. Encouraging renewable energy adoption aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and fosters a sustainable future. Incentives can take various forms, such as tax credits, rebates, grants, or net metering policies. These incentives can help offset the upfront costs of solar installations and make solar energy more accessible and attractive to homeowners. By implementing such incentives, Tennessee can accelerate the transition to a clean energy future and reap the associated economic, environmental, and energy benefits.
Comments and questions for the Tennessee Valley Authority’s Scoping Notice Regarding Cheatham County Generation Site_000004
7/7/2023
negative
Tracy A.
O'Neill
37015
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