The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is embarking on a study to analyze how they can effectively reduce carbon emissions at their natural gas plant in Muhlenberg County. In order to achieve this, the federal utility is considering a partnership with TC Energy to implement carbon capture technology at the Paradise Fossil Plant located in Drakesboro. Over the past few years, TVA has retired two coal-fired units at this facility and has set a goal to close down all of its coal units by 2035. By reducing emissions at the Paradise Fossil Plant, TVA is making strides towards their broader objective of becoming net-zero by 2050.

The study, estimated to cost $1.2 million, will focus on evaluating the expenses, technical obstacles, and operational impacts of incorporating carbon capture technology across TVA’s entire fleet of natural gas plants. Scott Fiedler, a spokesperson for TVA, emphasizes the significance of this effort, especially as TVA continues to integrate more solar energy into its portfolio. According to Fiedler, natural gas technology stands as the sole established form of technology that can ensure power grid reliability during times when solar energy is not accessible. Consequently, it becomes essential to explore ways to mitigate carbon emissions from existing natural gas facilities as they expand solar energy integration throughout their network.

Additionally, the study will examine the potential for carbon capture technology at TVA’s natural gas facility located in Ackerman, Mississippi. Carbon capture functions by diverting exhaust from the natural gas plants to a CO2 scrubber situated next to the plant. Through a chemical reaction, the CO2 is absorbed before the exhaust is released into the atmosphere. Subsequently, the captured CO2 is injected deep into the ground for storage. This study holds the potential to yield crucial insights into the feasibility and effectiveness of implementing carbon capture technology across TVA’s natural gas plants, consequently aiding their efforts in reducing carbon emissions and working towards their net-zero goal.