Tennessee Valley Authority Rethinks Coal Plant Closures Amid Rising Power Demand

Thu Feb 12 2026 00:30:36 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) shifts its plans to keep two coal-fired power plants, Kingston and Cumberland, open, citing increased electricity demand and regulatory changes.

The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) announced a significant change in its energy strategy by opting to maintain operations at two coal-fired power plants, Kingston and Cumberland, instead of closing them as initially planned. This decision, influenced by rising electricity demands and new regulatory landscapes, will require approval from TVA's board. Critics, including clean energy advocates, have raised concerns regarding public health and the environment, emphasizing the need for cleaner energy sources as an alternative to coal. As TVA looks to balance reliable power supply and environmental responsibility, its future direction reflects the complex intersection of energy needs and climate priorities.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), the nation's largest public utility, has decided to keep two of its coal-fired power plants operating—Kingston and Cumberland—despite earlier plans to shut them down. The utility cited a growing demand for electricity and recent changes in regulations as key factors driving this shift.

TVA had set goals to transition away from coal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2035. However, as power needs rise, TVA spokesperson Scott Brooks emphasized the necessity of evaluating all options to maintain reliable, affordable electricity for its 10 million customers across seven states.

Critics, including clean energy groups, argue that this decision could hinder TVA's commitment to cleaner energy solutions. They have pointed out the potential public health risks from increased coal plant operations, urging TVA to focus on solar and other renewable sources instead.

In light of growing electricity demands—partly due to the rapid rise of data centers and AI technology—the TVA acknowledges the complexities of balancing traditional energy sources with modern energy needs.

The TVA board is scheduled to meet to further discuss the fate of the coal plants, amidst ongoing debates about the future of energy production in the U.S.