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Memphians sharing Voice Opinions

Memphians Voice Opinions, Learn About Allen Environmental Studies

Members of the public shared their views and learned more about planned environmental studies for the retired Allen Fossil Plant on Thursday, Jan. 17, at the Mitchell Community Center in Memphis.

The information session was hosted by TVA staff—including specialists in ash storage, water quality and power plant operations—and explained the actions being planned by TVA to address arsenic found in shallow monitoring wells at the fossil plant site.

Allen Discussion

TVA staff spoke with more than 75 people at the open house event.

More than 75 people attended the session, which was part of TVA's outreach to gather public input on what to include in two separate environmental studies at Allen.

“Anytime TVA can connect with the community and engage Memphians one-on-one, we are more than happy to do so. And Memphis answered in a big way. We appreciate everyone who attended and who offered their feedback. Thank you!” said Marcey Wright, TVA community relations representative.

The first environmental study is the first step in the decision-making process about coal ash stored at the site. Known as an Environmental Impact Statement, the study will consider the potential environmental effects of various options for closing the ash impoundments at Allen.

TVA will evaluate options for closure of the ash areas that include, but are not limited to, closure by removal and closure in place. This evaluation supports TVA’s commitment to eliminate wet storage of coal combustion residuals (CCR) across its seven-state service area and support economic development opportunities for Memphis.

The second study is an overall environmental investigation plan to look at any potential effects of coal ash storage at Allen and six other sites where CCR is stored in Tennessee. Under the direction of the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC), TVA will collect and evaluate samples of groundwater, soil, fish, and dozens of other measures of the overall environment around the site.

To Submit Comments and Learn More

TVA wants to hear what you think should be included or emphasized in the Environmental Impact Statement. You’re invited to submit comments through Jan. 31, 2019, online at tva.com/nepa, by email to [email protected], and in writing to Ashley Farless, NEPA Compliance Specialist, 1101 Market Street, BR4A-C, Chattanooga, TN 37402.

To submit comments and learn more about the Environmental Investigation Plan, visit tva.com/Allen. Comments can be submitted through Jan. 31, 2019.

TVA recently extended the deadline for comments on both studies to Jan. 31.

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About Allen Fossil Plant

The Allen Fossil Plant is located in Shelby County, Tennessee, southwest of Memphis. The plant is located on the south bank of McKellar Lake and east of the Mississippi River. It was built in the 1950s by Memphis Light, Gas and Water Company (MLGW). TVA purchased the plant and underlying property in 1984. Allen’s three coal-fired units were retired on March 31, 2018.

What’s Going on at Allen Fossil Plant

For a retired asset, there is still a lot going on at Allen Fossil Plant in Memphis, and some decisions to be made about the future of the property. And TVA wants your input.