The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is embarking on a study aimed at mitigating carbon emissions at its natural gas plant in Muhlenberg County. Collaborating with TC Energy, the federal utility is considering the implementation of carbon capture technology at the Paradise Fossil Plant in Drakesboro. Having already retired two coal-fired units, TVA has set an ambitious target of shutting down its entire network of coal units by 2035. Reducing emissions at the Paradise Fossil Plant will facilitate TVA’s overarching objective of becoming a net-zero entity by 2050.
With an investment of $1.2 million, the study will closely examine the expenses, technical complexities, and operational implications of incorporating carbon capture technology in all of TVA’s natural gas plants. As TVA continues to expand its solar energy portfolio, reducing carbon emissions at existing facilities becomes paramount. “Natural gas technology is the only mature technology at this time to ensure the reliability of the power grid when the sun isn’t shining, so we need to look at ways to reduce carbon from these existing facilities as we add more solar to the network,” stated spokesman Scott Fielder to WKU Public Radio.
In addition to the Paradise Fossil Plant, the study will explore the potential for carbon capture technology at TVA’s natural gas facility in Ackerman, Mississippi. Carbon capture operates by channeling exhaust from natural gas plants to a CO2 scrubber located near the plant. Through a chemical reaction, the CO2 is absorbed, preventing its release into the air. The captured CO2 is then sequestered deep underground for storage.
By engaging in this study, TVA aims to pave the way for cleaner energy generation and contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
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