The Tennessee Valley Authority held the first of seven public meetings Thursday night in Chattanooga over its new plan for a gradual transition from coal to nuclear power.
Specifically, the 2015 Integrated Resource Plan outlines various scenarios and strategies the power provider may face through 2033.
This includes situations and strategies to combat them, such as a stagnant global economy or even a de-carbonized future.
Senior Program Manager Gary Brinkworth says regardless of how the world looks over the next two decades, he sees energy efficiency and low environmental impact as key.
"All of these scenarios are going to be cleaner," Brinkworth said. "Sixty, 75 percent of energy when we get there will come from non-emitting sources."
He also says that in addition to the shift from coal to nuclear power production, the TVA is looking to diversify its portfolio with further investments in natural gas and renewables.
The next meeting will be held April 6th in Knoxville, and the plan is open for public comment through April 27th.
The IRP’s final draft will be presented to the TVA board by August.
