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It’s easy to forget that the excitement of a potential “snow day” is not shared by everyone. Winter storms are felt differently depending on where you stand. When news of Winter Storm Fern first began to circulate, many of us debated whether it would amount to much at all—whether we’d “actually get any snow,” or whether the warnings would quietly fade away. For our local power companies (LPCs), though, there is no room for debate. Preparation begins long before the first snowflake falls. Crews mobilize. Capacity is recruited. Logistics are coordinated—meals, lodging, equipment—on the assumption that the storm will come, and that its impact could be catastrophic for the communities they serve. As Winter Storm Fern made her way across the Tennessee Valley, what unfolded in the weeks that followed was nothing short of remarkable. The storm itself was a spectacle – both terrifying and beautiful. In its aftermath, we saw images of deep snowbanks, children sledding, and intricate ice formations clinging to trees and fences. But those of us in the energy industry understand the other side of that beauty—the weight of ice on lines, the strain on equipment, and the fragile balance that keeps electricity flowing. Once again, we were reminded that society moves at the pace of electricity. In the days after the storm passed, we witnessed something even more powerful than the weather itself: the best of our humanity. The people we are proud to work alongside woke up day after day, coffee in hand and hot stick over their shoulder, ready to face whatever challenge waited beyond the truck door—all so that power, and a sense of order, could be restored. Was the work harder than expected? Probably. Did it reaffirm what it means to put service above self? Without question. While many of us remained sheltered at home, LPC crews from across the Valley stepped up. They melted the storm inch by inch, knocking ice from lines and equipment so electricity could move again without the crushing weight pulling it back down. They followed the sound of silence, tracing outages through snow-buried lines until they found a snapped conductor lying quiet in a ditch. Bucket trucks crept through ice-locked streets, their booms lifting linemen into sleet-soaked darkness to replace shattered crossarms and transformers split by the cold. The grid returned not all at once, but by touch—each repaired connection passed hand to hand through crews spread across miles of frozen ground.  As Mike Partin, President of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) and President & CEO of Sequachee Valley Electric Coop, recently shared, “It’s more than a principle on paper—it’s a promise we live out when disaster strikes. These men and women leave their own families to help other families. They go wherever they’re needed, whenever they’re needed, without hesitation.” And they were not alone. Businesses across the region stepped in as well, delivering hot meals—Taco Bell, Chick-fil-A, the unmistakable fuel of long days and longer nights. Electricity and kindness—two commodities that can feel in short supply—were both restored through collective effort. Moments like these force us to pause and reflect on the grit, resilience, and stamina that make our communities strong. Sometimes, Mother Nature reminds us not only of our vulnerabilities, but of our better angels. Today, homes are warm. Restaurants are open. Kids are back in school. Life has returned to something resembling normalcy—because of the unity, sacrifice, and hard work of LPCs across the Tennessee Valley. So we wanted to take a moment to simply say: Thank you.

Seven States continues to deploy battery energy storage system (BESS) projects and advance regional infrastructure initiatives. Recent projects—including the Montgomery Bell State Park (MBSP) installation—have provided valuable lessons that are shaping our approach moving forward. From operational insights to market signals, these experiences are informing how we deliver value to our member utilities. 1. Experience Our experience at MBSP confirmed that integrating battery storage into existing electric systems is well within current technical capabilities. The greater challenge lies in managing the additional workload alongside the daily priorities of utilities. Capturing lessons learned with each installation and applying them at scale to future projects allows each deployment to benefit from the last by reducing costs and increasing speed. 2. Performance tracks expectations To date, system performance at MBSP has been reliable, with no material operational issues. Financial results are also aligning with projections, reinforcing confidence in the technology itself. The primary risk areas are: forecasting peak demand and scheduling dispatch accurately to capture expected value—an operational nuance that becomes increasingly important as storage portfolios grow. Demand reduction assets are best served to be installed at reliable grid locations, which tend to be distribution substations, to minimize operational downtime due to extrinsic factors. 3. Integration impacts performance While standalone battery controllers can manage basic operations, deeper system integration delivers meaningful benefits. In particular, SCADA integration can significantly reduce the risk of missing peak events by improving visibility and responsiveness. This lesson is informing how Seven States designs future BESS projects, ensuring storage assets are fully integrated into utility operations rather than standalone resources. 4. Interest in BESS is growing Across the region, the market for battery storage and Reliability as a Service is shifting from early skepticism to informed curiosity. Utility interest continues to rise, though many are waiting for greater clarity before moving forward. Key sources of hesitation include uncertainty around TVA rates, evolving TVA programs, and open questions related to federal tariffs and tax policy. As these issues come into focus, we expect interest to translate into action. Together, these takeaways are guiding Seven States as we advance upcoming BESS projects and broader infrastructure initiatives. By applying proven lessons, prioritizing integration, and maintaining a regional focus, we are building a more resilient and flexible energy future for the communities we serve.

Chattanooga Times Free Press | 15 Feb 2026 | BY SEVEN STATES POWER CORPORATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS Demand for energy is climbing while extreme weather events like Winter Storm Fern and Winter Storm Elliott continue to challenge an already constrained electric system. Fortunately, there is a ready-now solution. Seven States Power Corporation is a cooperative designed to help meet demand for affordable, abundant and reliable power. Since the 1930s, the Tennessee River Valley has thrived under a vital network of the wholesale power provider — the Tennessee Valley Authority — and the electric utility customers that together form the public power model. More than 150 electric utility customers distribute affordable energy across a seven-state region of Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Kentucky, Virginia and North Carolina. In 2007, TVA and the electric utilities joined forces to form Seven States as an in-valley solution to finance power assets, expand energy production and modernize infrastructure. THE ‘IN-VALLEY’ SOLUTION Seven States is a nonprofit generation and transmission cooperative headquartered in Chattanooga. It is member-owned by the electric utility customers of TVA across the seven-state region. The cooperative is uniquely positioned to operate outside established debt constraints and regulatory limitations that restrict other entities. This means Seven States can own large power plants and transmission towers, which frees up debt for TVA to build and operate more power supply. When the electric utility customers collectively own assets through Seven States, it also ensures that rates in the region remain affordable. This flexibility allows Seven States to move quickly to supplement the valley’s energy needs with reliable sources of power. In January 2025, Seven States was awarded $439 million by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, consisting of a zero-interest loan and grant to build new capacity. The first initiative under this award is a utility-scale power project that will enhance grid stability and reliability, benefits that can be shared across the valley. Where demand for capital and power are soaring, Seven States makes it happen. Seven States has a proven history of filling critical gaps when needed. One of its earliest projects with TVA was financing a large power asset — an 800-megawatt gas plant located in Southaven, Mississippi. By partnering with Seven States, the energy sector can nearly double its capital investment to accelerate generation projects. Where finances are constrained, Seven States makes it happen. In addition, Seven States has stepped up to deliver distribution technologies that bridge the past, present and future of a modern energy grid. With projects deployed across the valley at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, Dollywood Parks and Resorts in Pigeon Forge, Montgomery Bell State Park in Burns, Tennessee, Rock City in Lookout Mountain, Georgia, and the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky, and with more than 500 electric vehicle chargers installed to date, Seven States has proactively advanced infrastructure to support economic development across the region. Where innovation and infrastructure are needed, Seven States makes it happen. In July 2025, the Seven States Board of Directors — representing 17 major electric utilities that purchase power from TVA — unanimously passed a resolution affirming Seven States as an additional supplier of abundant, reliable energy within the valley. By advancing an in-valley solution owned by the customers, the public power model can thrive and evolve from within, guided by those who know the region best. Seven States has built a foundation for the energy future through its cooperative structure and access to affordable capital. It represents a real opportunity to expand power production and light the way for prosperity across the Valley.

The Seven States Energy Express Project—supported through the USDA New ERA Program—represents a transformative investment in energy for the Tennessee Valley region. This initiative reflects the federal government’s commitment to accelerating energy development while strengthening grid reliability and economic development. Over the past year, Seven States Power Corporation was awarded a $415 million zero-interest loan and a $24 million grant by USDA. Demand for electricity is growing at an unprecedented pace, and this funding will add 220MW of capacity to the Valley. Fortunately, the Tennessee Valley is uniquely positioned to lead and serve as a national model for how advanced energy ecosystems are built. Seven States has been working closely with USDA and partners across federal, state, and local levels to ensure alignment, efficiency, and thoughtful deployment of this once-in-a-generation funding opportunity. All Energy Express Project assets will be owned, operated, and maintained by Seven States Power Corporation, ensuring long-term local stewardship, accountability, and operational excellence. The project will provide LPCs with a flexible energy resource to enhance grid reliability and support economic development. We recently advanced the first of three major project milestones with the successful submission of the Community Benefits Plan to USDA. In the months ahead, the project will progress through environmental review and underwriting processes, followed by procurement. As the Energy Express powers forward, it stands as more than an infrastructure project—it is a strategic investment in the future of the Tennessee Valley. By pairing federal funding with regional growth, Seven States is helping ensure that our power supply is abundant, reliable, and prepared for tomorrow’s energy demands.

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.

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.”

September 27, 2025 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.