Leading Decatur Utilities as General Manager, Ray Hardin strives to ensure their system is prepared for the future with innovative solutions. We asked him to share some of the ways he’s implemented technology in his LPC’s footprint. “Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) has helped us improve efficiency, maintenance, and long-term planning, while providing customers with usage data through the customer portal that enables them to look for ways to reduce their energy consumption and their cost. AMI has also integrated with the Outage Management and GIS Systems to improve outage tracking and reduce system downtime. We’ve also leveraged Demand Voltage Reduction technology to reduce the wholesale cost of electricity to keep customer rates as low as possible. And over several years, we have implemented LED streetlights throughout the City of Decatur, replacing less efficient lighting and saving the city on lighting costs.” Ray knows his LPC is responsible for the present and future of his community’s needs, and he wants his community to know that he strategically evaluates new technology with a long-term vision. “I want our customer to know that through our implementation of AMI, improved communications, Demand Voltage Reduction and other programs, we continue to look for ways to keep our system safe and reliable and provide the best service to our community at the lowest possible rates.” With so much technological advancement in the Valley, Ray encourages fellow leaders to lean on strategic partnerships to help bring about community change and benefits using cost-efficient solutions. “Don't go it alone! Seven States, TVA and other agencies bring a wealth of resources that can be leveraged to bring innovation to a local community without breaking budgets. For example, Decatur Utilities was able to install two Level 3 Rapid EV Chargers in our community through a partnership with the City of Decatur, TVA, Seven States, and ADECA. It would have been difficult for us to justify the cost of such a project on our own - but through this partnership, the cost was shared while the benefit to our customers and communities is enormous. Seek out those opportunities for shared funding that will benefit your local area and lean on others who have already researched or implement innovative technologies to get their ideas and advice.”
As Chief Information Officer for North Georgia Electric Membership Corporation (NGEMC), Brian Childers knows how crucial innovative partnerships and technology are in preparing for the grid of the future. Brian’s extensive experience has given him a deep understanding of technological diversity and strategic partnerships. We asked him to share some of the ways their team brought innovation to the North Georgia EMC membership, as well as his experience with Seven States as a trusted partner. “The most needed technology developments in our footprint focused on improving reliability, security, and member service. Upgrades to SCADA systems enhanced grid monitoring and automation, allowing faster outage detection and restoration. Cybersecurity improvements were critical to safeguarding member data and ensuring uninterrupted service. Mobile workforce tools streamlined field operations, enabling quicker response times to outages and service requests. Additionally, the installation of distribution system sectionalizing equipment, supported by fiber expansion, improved fault isolation and communication across the network, significantly reducing outage durations and strengthening overall system reliability for our members. Seven States has helped our LPC support innovation by providing access to emerging technologies and collaborative opportunities. They also share best practices that keep us aligned with industry advancements and prepared for future member needs.” Brian always considers how their members view NGEMC’s investments in innovation. “I want our members to know that our role in innovation is centered on improving their quality of life and ensuring reliable, secure, and efficient service. We invest in technologies like advanced grid automation, fiber-supported communication systems, and modern outage management tools to deliver faster restoration, better reliability, and enhanced security. Every innovation we pursue is designed to strengthen our community—whether by reducing outage times, enabling smarter energy solutions, or supporting future connectivity needs. Our commitment is to keep members at the heart of every technology decision we make.” Brian has learned that being plugged into your community and knowing their needs is fundamental to being an innovative leader. He offered this advice to others who might have questions about how to start bringing innovation to their LPC. “NGEMC’s territory includes communities served by multiple power providers, which limits large-scale community investments. Because of this, innovation should focus on projects that deliver clear, measurable benefits to members. Prioritize technologies that improve reliability while helping keep rates affordable. Stay informed on emerging trends like energy storage and flexible rate options while communicating openly with members to encourage adoption. Above all, maintain a long-term vision that balances innovation with financial responsibility, ensuring every investment strengthens member trust and delivers lasting value.”
Cleveland Utilities connects Cleveland to Fast Charge TN and regional Fast Charge Network
PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — October 3, 2025 — Seven States Power Corporation (Seven States), in partnership with Sevier County Electric System (SCES), and Dollywood is proud to announce the ribbon cutting and official unveiling of 7 new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations with 14 charging ports, and 10 solar-powered umbrella charging units at Dollywood, one of the nation’s leading theme park destinations. The new EV charging stations mark another exciting step forward in advancing transportation infrastructure to support the growing demand for electric vehicles in East Tennessee. Designed, developed, and deployed by Seven States, the project reflects a commitment to innovation, community partnership, and serving Dollywood guests. The ten solar-powered umbrellas will be installed in the Country Fair area, providing guests with a convenient place to charge their devices while they enjoy watching ride goers from the comfort of the shade. “Dollywood is a treasured landmark for families and visitors from across the country,” said Betsey Kirk McCall, President and CEO of Seven States. “We are honored to partner with SCES and Dollywood to deliver technology that adds convenience for guests while enhancing innovation in the region.” The addition of the charging stations and umbrellas highlight the shared vision of Seven States Power and SCES to expand access to energy solutions across the region. SCES provides electric power to more than 61,000 customers across Sevier County, Tennessee. As a locally owned public power utility, SCES has served the community for over 80 years with a focus on reliability, affordability, customer service, and innovation. “These projects represent our commitment to supporting innovation to meet the needs of our community. By working together, we’re helping ensure that both residents and visitors have access to the energy solutions of tomorrow, right here in Sevier County," said Allen Robbins, CEO of SCES. The ribbon cutting ceremony celebrates not only the completion of these projects, but also the growing collaboration between local utilities, community partners, and attractions to create a more modern energy future for Tennessee. “This partnership with Seven States and Sevier County Electric highlights the importance of regional collaboration to build infrastructure that supports both the local community and the millions of visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains each year. By investing in this technology, we are helping pave the way for a more sustainable future, while reinforcing our role as a leader in both the tourism industry and the community we call home," said Eugene Naughton, Dollywood Parks & Resorts President. “These investments further enhance our guest experience by providing services to help meet two emerging needs of those who visit.” The charging stations will be available for use to patrons in the Preferred Parking Lot of Dollywood Theme Park beginning October 6, 2025 while the umbrellas are available for use immediately.
With his extensive experience in the industry, Kendall Bear’s leadership as General Manager of Rockwood Electric Utility has given him the opportunity to ensure his community is prepared for the future. “Although we’ve had many of the following systems implemented for a few years now, looking back, I would say that building a fiber network between our main office and our substations has been beneficial in a variety of ways for Rockwood Electric. This opened the door for additional technology developments such as AMI, SCADA, distribution automation, Dispatchable Voltage Regulation, a 900 Mhz radio system, and a Meter Data Management System. Implementing a GIS system was extremely valuable as well, as we are now able to export that information to other systems such as Outage Management. We have a business and customer portal from CSA that is used extensively by our employees and customers—everyone really benefits from it.” Kendall knows his LPC is responsible for both the present and future of his community’s needs, and he wants his community to know that he is always looking for ways to better their lives. “We are working very hard to provide a reliable power supply to all our customers and using these different technologies helps us manage the power system. We want to be able to provide real-time information to our customers; something they would not normally have access to without these technologies. I would also want our community to know that we are their ‘trusted energy advisor’ and every employee at Rockwood Electric is committed to helping them make good decisions about the power they use.” With so much technological advancement in the Valley, Kendall encourages fellow leaders to make a strategic plan and collaborate with their peers. “The possibilities for innovation are almost endless, and there are a variety of products that are offered by many vendors. It is more than a little overwhelming! I would encourage a new GM to develop a strategic plan if the utility doesn’t already have one that is up-to-date. This may involve getting input from the many stakeholders in the community. After prioritizing your goals, get to work. Finally, I would tell a new GM to talk to his or her peers and colleagues a LOT. They will tell you what they have done that has been a colossal flop so you’ll know to avoid it, or they will tell you what they have been successful with. I guarantee every manager will share their story if you ask.”
Marty Ivy knows that when it comes to the energy industry, innovative partnerships and technology help prepare everyone for the unexpected. Leading Mayfield Electric and Water System as General Superintendent, Marty has overcome his community’s fair share of devastating weather events. His experienced leadership has allowed him to place an emphasis on technological diversity and preparedness. We asked him to share his experience with various projects with Seven States: “Most recently, Seven States helped us develop an RFP and select a 1.3-megawatt solar installation that we’re preparing to deploy. Projects like this take time, but once it’s in place, it will serve as our generation to help offset TVA’s requirement. Seven States has also been a major supporter for us in mutual aid during disasters. We’ve had three FEMA events — the remnants of Hurricane Ike in 2008, the ice storm in 2009, and the tornadoes in 2021. So, between disaster recovery and now helping us with solar, Seven States has really been there for us. That’s what makes partnership so valuable — you all make things easier, and we see you not just as partners but as friends who help keep our communities strong. We’re grateful for that support and excited about the projects still to come.” To Marty, the most important thing he wants his members to know is that every decision is made with their needs in mind. “Mayfield Electric and Water System strives to be an efficient and innovative utility while managing both reliability and rates. That’s really what it comes down to — being reliable and keeping costs low for our customers. We’ve already seen how innovation can transform our operations. For example, our customer service representatives have been amazed at how much new technology has improved our outage management system. It’s made responding to customers easier, faster, and far more efficient, especially during storms. There’s so much potential we haven’t even discovered yet in the Valley.” With 34 years of industry experience, Marty knows that change is inevitable. He offered this advice to general managers who might be wondering where to start when it comes to bringing innovation to their LPC. “The best advice I can give anyone is this: you can’t effectively manage what you don’t know. That’s why technology is so important — it puts knowledge of your system right at your fingertips. My advice is, don’t be afraid of change. I’ve been with Mayfield Electric and Water System for 34 years, serving as manager since 2001. Over that time, I’ve seen the industry cycle and evolve about every five years. The one constant is that change always comes, and if you’re afraid of it, you’ll get left behind. So, for future managers and anyone in this industry, my advice is to dive in, get your feet wet, and embrace the changes that move us forward.”
Seven States Power Corporation (Seven States) is exploring opportunities to deliver new power generation to the Tennessee Valley. The effort is bolstered by a landmark $415 million zero-interest loan and $24 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Utilities Service (USDA RUS), designed to meet the growing demand for power while strengthening grid reliability. The opportunity signals a creative solution toward advancing American Energy Dominance in the southeast region. “We are excited to get underway with this first of what we hope will be a number of USDA-assisted projects across the Tennessee Valley,” said Betsey Kirk McCall, President and CEO of Seven States Power Corporation. “We understand this initiative aligns with national priorities on energy dominance and security.” The project is intended to use domestically produced solar panels and battery storage that tie into the electric grid, generating a new source of affordable solar power for residential and commercial customers and providing a new source of stored energy that can be used to meet peak demands as needed. The project is proposed to be constructed on industrial land owned by the Economic Development Growth Engine (EDGE) and subleased to Seven States. “MLGW is supporting Seven States in this effort by exploring the feasibility of this project as a way to strengthen and modernize our grid to create greater reliability for our customers and potentially help us maintain some of the lowest electric rates in the country,” said Doug McGowen, President and CEO of MLGW. A subleasing arrangement approved by EDGE is the first step toward this innovative solution. Seven States and MLGW will continue to assess the best technical and contractual path forward to delivering more than 200MW of solar generation and battery storage. This collaboration illustrates how federal funding, coupled with local partnership, can accelerate how energy is generated and transmitted to strengthen the grid. This new generation could serve a growing Shelby County and Tennessee Valley by December 2027. ### About Seven States: Seven States Power Corporation is a generation and transmission cooperative with a mission to leverage innovative technology to design, develop, and deploy energy solutions, together with more than 100 member-owner local power companies, across the Tennessee Valley. A key aspect of Seven States’ formation was the ability to finance utility-scale generation assets, expand energy production, and modernize infrastructure to support the growing grid. About MLGW: MLGW is the nation's largest three-service municipal utility, serving more than 440,000 customers. Since 1939, MLGW has met the utility needs of Memphis and Shelby County residents by delivering reliable and affordable electricity, natural gas, and water service.
In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, the energy ecosystem is more complex—and more essential—than ever. Every community, every business, and every innovation depends on reliable, affordable, and abundant power. At Seven States, we recognize this ecosystem—past, present, and future—is critical to unleashing American energy and empowering the Tennessee Valley. Many different forms of energy play a vital role in fueling today’s industries. From nuclear, coal, and natural gas plants that provide baseload reliability, to solar and battery storage that deliver power quickly to the grid, America can dominate this industry and lead globally given the abundant resources and technological advancements present in our country. At the core of our cooperative work is a mission that is as straightforward as it is powerful: megawatts. From the Southaven combined cycle gas plant we co-owned with TVA to the $439 million funding award we received earlier this year from USDA, Seven States has always been laser-focused on building and owning capacity of all sizes that deliver real, measurable impact. Our relationship with USDA opens the door to more potential funding for the Valley. As such, we have submitted for consideration additional funding requests up to $5.6 billion in financing capacity to acquire 4,000MW of utility-scale natural gas units and another $320 million to deploy 300MW of distribution-scale battery storage on 75+ project sites. By working incrementally with each customer and at-scale across the Valley, we are empowering our member-owner LPCs to meet consumer demand in an evolving utility marketplace. As a reminder, Seven States was awarded a $414 million zero-interest loan and $25 million grant to built utility-scale power generation in the Valley. Of note, while other projects throughout the Valley have been impacted by recent federal funding changes, the USDA New ERA funds awarded to Seven States remain intact and the project is progressing forward with a new site. Our mission is not just about preparing for the future; it’s about building the here and now. New power generation, reliability as a service, transportation infrastructure, and grid modernization are not concepts on a drawing board—they are real projects, powering homes, businesses, and institutions today. By anchoring innovation in present action, we ensure that the Tennessee Valley doesn’t just keep pace with change but sets a fast pace for energy leadership. In the end, understanding the energy ecosystem means recognizing its depth, complexity, and interdependence. At Seven States Power, we embrace that complexity as our opportunity—to deliver megawatts, unleash American energy, support economic development, and to lead the Valley into an energy future that honors where we’ve been while advancing where we must go.
Investment Tax Credits (ITCs) remain one of the most effective tools available to local power companies (LPCs) and private businesses looking to accelerate energy infrastructure investments. With recent federal legislation revising eligibility and critical deadlines approaching, the time is now to use ITCs toward planned projects. Seven States has closely monitored every stage of legislative changes to the ITC policies, ensuring that project partners stay informed on evolving opportunities and risks. Beyond tracking policy shifts, Seven States has actively advocated for protecting ITC provisions to our federal, state, and local delegations, reinforcing their long-term value for the communities they serve. Following the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill and subsequent changes by Treasury, here are seven key takeaways on how to utilize ITC to lower costs for anticipated solar and battery storage projects. Seven States recently completed its ITC registration of a battery storage asset and is prepared to guide project partners through these opportunities, as well as offer technical expertise, project management, and financing coordination to maximize every dollar of value. 1. Don’t Miss Critical Deadlines Timing is essential when it comes to ITCs. Credit rates often decline over time, and most projects must meet “begin construction” requirements by July 4, 2025 to secure the highest incentives. Proper documentation is essential to qualify. Seven States helps members stay ahead of these timelines with expert guidance on compliance, permitting, and project execution. 2. Battery Storage Projects Remain Eligible One of the most impactful updates to ITC policy is the protection of standalone battery storage. Moreover, ITCs help make solar-plus-storage a practical reality. These solutions provide load management, outage resilience, and support for emerging operational integrations. Seven States offers the know-how to design and finance these systems, helping members capture the full benefits. 3. Solar Projects Remain Eligible Solar energy continues to be one of the biggest beneficiaries of ITCs. By covering a significant portion of upfront costs, ITCs make solar projects more affordable and financially attractive for LPCs and businesses. This enables owners to grow their generation portfolios, reduce risk, and deliver cost savings to end users. Pairing ITCs with Seven States’ technical expertise ensures solar installations are optimized for performance and long-term community benefit. 4. Be aware of Foreign Entities of Concern (FEOC) Policies Recent updates to federal policy now restrict the use of ITCs for projects that source equipment or materials from “foreign entities of concern,” such as China. This shift makes supply chain diligence more critical than ever, as project owners must carefully select vendors and partners to ensure ITC eligibility and avoid costly disqualifications. Seven States can help navigate these evolving requirements by vetting technology providers, coordinating compliant procurement strategies, and reducing the risk of ineligibility—ensuring projects move forward with confidence and maximum financial benefit. 5. Financing Complexity Requires Expertise Navigating ITC rules, financing structures, and transferability provisions is not simple. The upside is substantial, but so is the complexity. Seven States provides the expertise needed to manage these elements, from structuring deals and securing tax equity to coordinating compliance. 6. The Cost of Waiting Is High Between phasedown schedules, rising project costs, and supply chain constraints, waiting to act can mean missing out on millions in incentives. Project Owners that move quickly will lock in higher ITC rates, secure financing on favorable terms, and be first in line for limited equipment and contractor availability. Seven States is ready to help move projects from planning to implementation before windows close. 7. Seven States Is Your ITC Partner Seven States brings deep technical knowledge and financial coordination expertise. As a trusted partner, Seven States can help LPCs and businesses identify the right projects, capture available incentives, and deliver more reliable energy at a lower cost. The time to act is now—and with Seven States, you don’t have to navigate the ITC landscape alone.
