TVA Seeks Comments on Draft Bellefonte Environmental Statement

Nov. 10, 2009

SCOTTSBORO, Ala. – TVA will hold an open house Tuesday, Dec. 8, in Scottsboro to receive public comments on the environmental review of alternatives for completing and operating a nuclear reactor at the Bellefonte Nuclear Plant site near Hollywood, Ala.

TVA is asking for public comments on three proposed alternatives outlined in a draft supplemental environmental impact statement -- completing one of the existing units, building a new reactor or taking no action.

The environmental review also addresses transmission improvements required to support electric generation at the Bellefonte site. All transmission work would be on existing rights of way.

In 2007, TVA submitted applications to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission for construction and operation of two advanced technology Westinghouse AP1000 reactors at Bellefonte and is currently studying the feasibility of finishing partially constructed units at the site.

The open house will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Goose Pond Civic Center, 876 Ed Hembree Drive in Scottsboro. During the open house, TVA staff will be available to discuss the alternatives and potential environmental impacts of completing and operating a nuclear unit at Bellefonte.

Under provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act, TVA prepared the draft supplemental environmental impact statement using reports previously prepared for the construction of the units, as well as new information.

Along with the detailed engineering and feasibility study, the environmental review will help TVA decide whether to complete one of the existing unfinished units at the plant or construct a new nuclear unit.

The draft supplemental environmental impact statement is available for review and comment online. Comments may also be mailed to Ruth Horton, 400 Summit Hill Drive (WT-11D), Knoxville, TN 37902 or faxed to (865) 632-3451. All written comments must be received by Dec.28.

TVA is the nation’s largest public power provider and is completely self-financing. TVA provides power to large industries and 158 power distributors that serve approximately 9 million consumers in seven southeastern states. TVA also creates economic development opportunities and manages the Tennessee River and its tributaries to provide multiple benefits, including flood damage reduction, navigation, water quality and recreation.

Media Contact:

Terry Johnson, Chattanooga, (423) 751-6875
TVA News Bureau, Knoxville, (865) 632-6000

TVA Newsroom