Energy Express Project
Community Benefits & FAQs

The Energy Express Project is a utility-scale energy initiative developed by Seven States Power Corporation in partnership with Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW), Nashville Electric Service (NES), and BrightRidge. The 220MW battery storage system, capable of storing 880MWh of energy, will help provide clean, reliable, and affordable power across the Tennessee Valley. 

The project will be built on sites secured in coordination with local power companies in Memphis, Nashville, and Johnson City, Tennessee. All will be co-located with existing local power company substations.

The partners will break ground in 2027, and assets are estimated to be commissioned in late 2028.

The project will benefit your community by: 

• Supporting local construction, engineering, and skilled trade jobs during project development and installation. 
• Investing in domestically manufactured equipment and strengthening the American energy workforce. 
• Improving electric system reliability by adding battery storage that can discharge power during periods of high demand. 
• Helping keep power affordable by using low-cost USDA financing awarded for new energy infrastructure in the Tennessee Valley. 
• Moderninzing the local electric grid with advanced energy storage technology. 
• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions by shifting energy use from higher-cost, higher-emission peak periods to lower-emission off-peak periods. 
• Supporting the long-term energy needs of homes, businesses, schools, and public services across the community. 

The Energy Express Project is being financed through a $439 Million award from the USDA New ERA Program, which includes a $415 Million 0% interest loan and $24 Million in no-match grant funding. This federal investment significantly lowers the overall cost of the project, enabling Seven States and local power companies to deliver battery storage resources without placing additional financial burden on local ratepayers.

The Energy Express Project will help cut greenhouse gas emissions by reducing dependence on peaking fossil fuel plants.  Cleaner air and fewer emissions will improve public health and environmental quality in nearby neighborhoods and across Tennessee.

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) were selected because they provide significant benefits to the Tennessee Valley while helping achieve the greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction goals of USDA's New ERA program. By storing energy during off-peak hours and delivering it when demand is highest, battery storage improves grid reliability, increases operational flexibility, reduces system losses, and supports more efficient use of the existing electric grid. A BESS-only portfolio provides a cost-effective, scalable solution that strengthens the electric system while delivering affordable, reliable electricity to local power companies and the communities they serve.

The battery energy storage systems will typically charge at night, when electricity demand is lower, and discharge during periods of high demand—such as late afternoon and early evening in the summer or early morning during the winter. This helps local power companies reduce peak electricity costs, improve grid reliability, and make more efficient use of the existing electric system. It also supports the greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction goals of USDA's New ERA program by shifting energy use to lower-emission periods.

Battery energy storage systems operate quietly and efficiently. During project design, equipment placement, setbacks, and other mitigation measures will be considered to minimize noise at nearby homes and businesses. 

The battery energy storage systems are compact, containerized units that consist of battery cabinets, conversion equipment, and supporting electrical infrastructure enclosed within a secure fenced area. They are designed to integrate with the surrounding utility environment while maintaining a relatively small footprint.

Safety is a top priority throughout the design, construction, and operation of every battery energy storage system. The systems will comply with all applicable fire, electrical, and building codes and include continuous monitoring, automatic fault detection, and built-in protection systems.

The Energy Express Project is a collaborative effort led by Seven States Power Corporation in partnership with Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW), Nashville Electric Service (NES), and BrightRidge. Seven States will develop, own, and operate the battery storage facilities, while MLGW, NES, and BrightRidge serve as the local utility partner ensuring the energy stored directly supports customers across their communities. The project is also supported by the USDA New Empowering Rural America (ERA) Program, whose financial backing makes this large-scale renewable energy investment possible for these communities.

Seven States Power Corporation will maintain an online project platform with regular updates, construction milestones. A contact form for questions or feedback is provided below. This ensures transparent communication and gives residents a direct channel to engage with project leaders throughout development and operation.