On the heels of launching virtual home energy audits, TVA is introducing another new and industry-leading web-based platform for staying engaged with communities we serve during these unique and challenging times.

TVA is hosting its first ever virtual open house to share information regarding our efforts at the Bull Run Fossil Plant as we prepare for closure in 2023.

“In response to the global pandemic, we worked to develop this new platform to stay connected and overcome some of the challenges of communicating with our neighbors right now,” said Scott Turnbow, TVA’s vice president for civil projects. “The virtual open house will give interested individuals access to information about TVA and our Bull Run Fossil Plant without leaving the safety and comfort of their homes.”

Through computer technology, a conference room will be replicated online with each of the TVA technical stations. Participants will be able to use their mouse to virtually walk into the conference room and view the content of each station, including videos and other materials. Where appropriate a voice narration provides additional information to help understand the content presented.

The virtual open house will highlight TVA’s core mission areas of energy, environment, and economic development and their impact throughout the Tennessee Valley. Additionally, we will share information relating to the Bull Run Fossil plant closure process, our safe management of coal ash, power grid changes in the Haw Ridge area, and the future potential redevelopment opportunities for the site post-closure.

Recently, TVA released a conceptual rendering of some possibilities for the Bull Run site to showcase the potential for redevelopment, public green space, and other ideas to kickstart conversations around the future for the community.

Turnbow estimates the site could be ready for development in 2028, depending on the outcome of environmental studies under the direction of the state and the closure option decision for long-term coal ash storage at the site.

“We will look for future opportunities to host in-person meetings as the closure process continues and public health concerns diminish,” Turnbow said. “Right now, we are excited to launch this new tool to stay in touch and keep everyone informed.”

The virtual open house begins July 23 at 5pm ET, at which point this link will become active: tvavirtual.com/oakridge