Our Impact

Source: Hoodline | 21 July 2026 | By Bob Norris Memphis Light, Gas & Water is gearing up for a massive battery play that could reshape how Shelby County keeps the lights on and the bills in check. Utility leaders say a new countywide battery storage network could cut pricey wholesale power purchases and help keep electric rates steady well into the next decade. The idea is simple enough, even if the hardware is anything but. MLGW wants large-scale batteries stationed at key substations around the county, ready to kick in when demand spikes and wholesale prices jump. What’s Being Proposed MLGW outlined a plan to install 125 megawatts of battery storage spread across nine substations in Shelby County. The systems would quietly charge up overnight when power is cheaper, then discharge during peak hours to reduce what the utility has to buy from the Tennessee Valley Authority at premium prices. Locations floated by officials include Cordova, Collierville, Whitehaven and North Memphis, according to Action News 5 . It is a far cry from a backup battery in your hallway closet. Project Partners And Funding Regional developer Seven States Power, which is leading the broader Energy Express initiative, is lining up the pieces behind the scenes. The MLGW portion is expected to account for roughly 100 megawatts of a 220-megawatt rollout across Tennessee, supported by about $439 million in zero-interest loans and grants from USDA’s Rural Utilities Service. Seven States Power says construction is scheduled to start in 2027, with a goal of having the full system up and running by December 2028. What City Leaders Were Told Speaking to the Memphis City Council, MLGW President Doug McGowen framed the storage push as a direct play to keep customer bills from climbing. He said the strategy is “designed to push rates downward, down, not up,” and MLGW told council members it does not expect an electric rate increase until after 2030, according to Action News 5 . How This Fits With MLGW’s Earlier Plans This battery push did not come out of nowhere. In March 2025, MLGW issued a request for proposals seeking roughly 100 megawatts of solar generation paired with about 80 megawatts of utility-scale battery storage, along with smaller distribution-level projects. According to MLGW , that RFP let vendors pitch either utility-owned projects or third-party power purchase deals as the utility began testing the waters on local generation and storage. Benefits And Outstanding Questions Seven States estimates the combined battery installations would support power needs for roughly 12,000 homes and create construction jobs along the way. The setup is also expected to limit MLGW’s exposure to the most expensive peak market purchases. But some big pieces still have to fall into place. Siting, permitting and contract details have not been finalized, and the partners say they plan public outreach and technical reviews before any shovels hit the ground, as outlined by Seven States Power . Next steps include more detailed technical studies, regulatory sign-offs, and public briefings before contracts are locked in and crews mobilize in 2027. If the schedule holds, the batteries would be online by December 2028, giving MLGW a new tool to shave peak costs and put continued downward pressure on rates across Shelby County.

Jason Reese, General Manager of Shelbyville Power, Water, and Sewer System, leads his LPC with a focus on the evolving technology that strengthens reliability, improves efficiency, and enhances service for his customers. He took a moment to highlight some of the innovation that is truly making a difference across his community. AMI technology has had the greatest impact on Shelbyville Power, Water, and Sewer Systems and our community. Our system converted to AMI meters nearly 14 years ago, and this technology has enabled us to streamline many manual utility processes and improve operational efficiency in our electric and water systems. AMI electric meters with remote disconnect capabilities have enabled us to remotely disconnect and reconnect customers on the collections list, reducing truck rolls, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing employee safety. AMI water meters allow us to identify water leaks much sooner than was previously possible, benefiting both our customers and our efforts to reduce water loss. Our team is also very proud of our recent pilot distribution automation project installed on three circuits, each served by a different substation, which provide power to Shelbyville's two main corridors. Implementing distribution automation on these circuits helps minimize the number of customers affected during outages or the loss of a power source, improving service reliability for the community. Building on its success, our long-term goal is to expand distribution automation across all eighteen circuits and all three substations to further enhance system reliability, resiliency, and service to our customers. As the Valley continues to evolve and change, Jason knows firsthand that Seven States is a trusted industry resource and a valuable partner in helping LPCs navigate the process of implementing new technology projects. In June 2026, we completed our first EV charger project as part of the TN Fast Charge Network, and I cannot say enough good things about how Seven States and Joe Knox helped guide us through that process. These chargers have already been a hit with our community and have also brought in travelers from out of town to our downtown square. Everything from start to finish went as smoothly as it possibly could, and that is due to Seven States.  While technology continues to transform the utility industry every day, Jason believes some aspects of the system will always depend on the knowledgeable workers who keep everything running behind the scenes. Hands-on infrastructure maintenance is one traditional utility practice that I believe will never completely disappear, regardless of how much technology advances. No matter how sophisticated our systems become, maintaining physical infrastructure will always require skilled workers to perform inspections, repairs, and upgrades in the field. Just as the utility industry is built on connections that span across communities, music has a way of bringing people together, even across generations. When asked which celebrity he would most like to meet for dinner, his choice was a musician who has stood the test of time. It would have to be Elvis Presley. As someone who has a love for all genres of music, to be able to sit down and talk with him about his career and experiences from gospel to rock-n-roll would be an absolute thrill!

As utilities continue evolving to meet changing member expectations, David Smart, President and CEO of West Kentucky Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation (WKRECC), has focused on blending convenience with programs that directly improve quality of life. Smart points to both digital modernization and energy efficiency initiatives as areas where WKRECC has made meaningful strides for its members. One modernization effort that’s impacted our community has been the implementation of a mobile app and other digitized forms that make it easier for members to do business with their cooperative, including drive-thru registration and tablet voting at our annual meeting. Another would be Home Uplift initiatives, home energy audits, cold climate heat pump conversions and other programs we have implemented to improve the standard of living, comfort, and efficiency in our members’ homes.  Innovation at WKRECC has also extended into advanced energy management and distributed energy resources. Smart elaborated on one of the cooperative’s proudest accomplishments involving internally managing demand and system performance. Our team is especially proud of our PowerShift Program, which utilizes our members’ whole home generators and batteries for demand response. The precision and application technology used has allowed us to offset our peak demand successfully. We have built our own DER gateway allowing us to meter, control, and interrogate home generators and inverters, and our own DERMS platform that incorporates an operational load forecast. Even as utilities embrace new technologies and digital tools, Smart believes some longstanding member habits will remain an important part of cooperative culture. Despite all of the technological advances in the utility world, I think many cooperative members will continue to pay their bill in person at one of our offices. Personal interaction and in-office service continue to matter for our members. In an industry focused on infrastructure and technology, Smart recognizes the value of strong communicators and trusted voices who help bring people and communities together. When asked a lighter question about who he’d like to have dinner with, he pointed to a well-known Kentucky figure who brings folks together. If I could have dinner with anyone, I would love to have dinner with the legendary voice of the Wildcats, Cawood Ledford. I think the stories he could tell would be enlightening and fascinating.

The second quarter of 2026 has been a productive period for the Seven States team, with much of the spring and early summer dedicated to engaging utility leaders, elected officials, community stakeholders, and the public to share the vision, progress, and benefits of the Energy Express Project. Members of the Seven States team had the privilege of speaking with leaders from BrightRidge, Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW), and the Nashville Electric Service (NES). These publicly held meetings served as important forums to answer questions, share project milestones, and demonstrate how the Energy Express Project will modernize and strengthen the Valley’s electric infrastructure for decades to come. Led by Seven States, the project will deliver 220MW of battery storage capacity across multiple site locations in partnership with BrightRidge (20MW), MLGW (100MW), and NES (100MW). The project is backed by Seven States’ award of a landmark $439 million zero-interest loan and grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities Service (USDA RUS). A primary objective of the project will be creating a stronger, more flexible electric grid capable of meeting increasing energy demands related to the state's industrial, commercial, and residential sectors. The battery assets will charge during off peak hours and discharge during peak hours to help peak shave, reducing costs and grid strain while providing utilities with greater operational flexibility. Originally envisioned as a utility scale solar project, the initiative will now deploy battery storage as a standalone resource on the distribution system and the assets will be owned and operated by Seven States. The project's outreach efforts have been featured by local media outlets (highlighted below), and a dedicated website has been launched to provide project updates while offering the public an opportunity to submit comments and questions. As we continue advancing the project, we remain grateful for the opportunity to engage with partners across Tennessee and share our progress with the Seven States audience. We look forward to continuing these conversations with utilities, local governments, community organizations, and rate payers as the Energy Express Project moves forward. Together, we are building and energizing the grid of the future. POWERING UP: Chattanooga-based Seven States to build grid batteries with $439M in federal funds BrightRidge, Seven State Power Corporation partnership to bring battery storage to the Tennessee Valley MLGW and Seven States Power form partnership for battery storage MLGW, Seven States make deal to deploy battery storage Energy Express Project to Bring Battery Storage to Greater Nashville Nashville's power grid is about to get a boost. Here's how.

June 25, 2026 Seven States Power Corporation, headquartered in Chattanooga, Tenn., is pleased to announce that it will deliver a significant infrastructure investment to modernize the electric grid in partnership with Nashville Electric Service (NES), a municipal public utility based in Nashville, TN. The initiative, named the Energy Express Project, will deploy battery storage as a standalone resource designed to support peak demand, improve grid resiliency, and provide NES with greater operational flexibility. The project is backed by Seven States’ award of a landmark $439 million zero-interest loan and grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities Service (USDA RUS). This announcement follows similar recent announcements related to additional project locations across the state in partnership with Memphis Light, Gas and Water in Memphis, TN and BrightRidge in Johnson City, TN. The approach reflects a strategic decision to prioritize dispatchable energy assets that can respond immediately to system needs. By focusing solely on battery storage, Seven States and its partners aim to enhance reliability, allowing the utilities to better manage demand fluctuations and unexpected outages while maintaining some of the lowest electric rates in the country. “The Energy Express Project demonstrates how federal financing, local ownership, and collaborative partnerships can accelerate deployment of advanced grid technologies to help manage growing demand to meet the region’s energy needs,” said Betsey Kirk McCall, President and CEO of Seven States Power Corporation. “Battery storage provides an innovative tool that aligns with national priorities around energy dominance, affordability, and reliability.” Led by Seven States, the project will consist of 100 megawatts of battery storage capacity interconnected with NES’s electric distribution system. The batteries will be capable of storing energy from the existing grid and deploying it during periods of peak demand or system stress, helping stabilize the grid while reducing exposure to high-cost power purchases. “Our partnership with the team of experts at Seven States will allow us to deliver a battery solution that will modernize our grid, improve operations, and provide reliability for our customers,” said Teresa Broyles-Aplin, president and CEO of NES. “It gives us greater control during peak demand periods and supports our ongoing effort toward reliable energy distribution.” The battery installations will be constructed at several NES substations throughout Greater Nashville. Construction is expected to begin in 2027, with the project targeted for completion by December 2028. Once operational, the initiative is expected to support the electric needs of approximately 12,000 homes and businesses across the Greater Nashville area and create jobs during construction.  Seven States will utilize the award from USDA to build 220MW of battery storage with its electric utility partners in west, middle and east Tennessee. The initiative is among the first of its kind in the Tennessee Valley and represents a significant investment in grid reliability and local energy infrastructure. Seven States and NES view the project as a model for future battery-focused investments across the Southeast.

June 18, 2026 Seven States Power Corporation, headquartered in Chattanooga, Tenn., announced in September a partnership with MLGW that would deliver a significant infrastructure investment to modernize the electric grid in partnership with Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) a municipal public utility based in Memphis, TN. Since that time, the project has expanded beyond its original scope. Originally envisioned as a combined solar-and-storage project, the initiative will now deploy battery storage as a standalone resource designed to support peak demand, improve grid resiliency, and provide MLGW with greater operational flexibility. The project remains backed by Seven States’ award of a landmark $439 million zero-interest loan and grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities Service (USDA RUS). The revised approach reflects a strategic decision to prioritize dispatchable energy assets that can respond immediately to system needs. By focusing solely on battery storage, Seven States and MLGW aim to enhance reliability, allowing the utility to better manage demand fluctuations and unexpected outages while maintaining some of the lowest electric rates in the country. “We are thrilled to build new electric infrastructure to support growing demand and meet the region’s energy needs,” said Betsey Kirk McCall, President and CEO of Seven States Power Corporation. “Battery storage provides a powerful, flexible, and innovative tool that aligns with national priorities around energy dominance, affordability, and reliability.” Led by Seven States Power Corporation, the project will consist of 100 megawatts of battery storage capacity interconnected with MLGW’s electric distribution system. The batteries will be capable of storing energy from the existing grid and deploying it during periods of peak demand or system stress, helping stabilize the grid while reducing exposure to high-cost power purchases. “This scalable battery solution allows us to modernize our grid and improve reliability for our customers,” said Doug McGowen, president and CEO of MLGW. “It gives us greater control during peak demand periods to support power supply to our customers across Memphis and Shelby County.” The battery installations will be constructed at several MLGW substations throughout Memphis and Shelby County. Construction is expected to begin in 2027, with the project targeted for completion by December 2028. Once operational, the initiative is expected to support the electric needs of approximately 12,000 homes and businesses across Shelby County and create jobs during construction. Seven States will utilize the award from USDA to build 220MW of battery storage with its electric utility partners in west, middle and east Tennessee. The initiative is among the first of its kind in the Tennessee Valley, demonstrating how federal financing, local ownership, and collaborative partnerships can accelerate deployment of advanced grid technologies. Seven States and MLGW view the project as a model for future battery-focused investments across the Southeast. Additional Related Articles MLGW, Seven States make deal to deploy battery storage; xAI solar sublease scrapped Memphis leads TN in lead service line removal efforts MLGW proposes battery storage projects to strengthen electric grid

Leading Hartselle Utilities as General Manager, Ty Chancelor has focused on innovative efforts that improve reliability, efficiency, and customer service. We asked him to elaborate on the specific technology and modernization that has changed his LPC footprint, in addition to describing some of his team’s wins for their community. The modernization effort that has likely had the biggest impact on our community in recent years has been Hartselle Utilities’ transition to Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI). We began with the conversion of our electric and natural gas systems and ultimately plan to expand AMI capabilities to our water system as well. It’s significantly improved the reliability and efficiency of our operations while also enhancing customer service. For a growing community like Hartselle, investing in modernization projects like AMI helps position us to serve our customers more efficiently while preparing for future technology needs. One specific project our team is especially proud of is our peak shaving initiative. The installation and implementation of the project was spearheaded by our previous General Manager, Bob Sittason, with engineering support from Lance Junkin and Stewart Engineering. Bob strongly believed in making strategic investments that would create long-term value for our customers, and this project is a great example of that vision. Peak shaving has allowed Hartselle Utilities to reduce wholesale power demand costs during periods of highest usage, creating substantial savings for our system and ultimately for our customers. The project also positioned Hartselle Utilities to be more proactive and data-driven in managing system demand and power costs. In March 2022, the Board also approved a voltage reduction proposal as part of our continued efforts to improve system efficiency and maximize savings opportunities. Beyond the financial impact, this project represents the forward-thinking leadership and long-term planning that continues to shape our organization today. Ty also credits Seven States as being a valuable partner for Hartselle Utilities as the needs of his community have continued to evolve. Seven States has been a tremendous partner in helping Hartselle Utilities explore and implement innovative projects that benefit our community. One of the best examples is the installation of our downtown EV fast charging station. With financial support and guidance from Seven States, Hartselle Utilities was able to bring fast-charging infrastructure to our downtown area, helping support economic development, tourism, and the growing demand for electric vehicle accessibility. The project aligned well with our goal of preparing our community for the future while also encouraging visitors to spend time in our downtown district. Since the ribbon cutting in July 2024, the charging station has seen strong community and traveler usage. Projects like this demonstrate how partnerships with organizations like Seven States help local power companies take practical steps toward innovation while still focusing on community needs. Despite the rapidly changing technology in the Valley, the utility business remains rooted in personal relationships and customer service. Chancelor believes that will always remain important in communities like Hartselle. No matter how much technology evolves, I don’t think in-person customer interaction will ever completely disappear in the utility industry. Utilities are still very relationship-driven, especially in communities like Hartselle where customers know our employees personally and expect a level of service that goes beyond an app or automated system. Technology absolutely improves efficiency and communication, but there are still times when customers simply want to talk to a real person face-to-face — whether it’s discussing a billing issue, setting up new service, or navigating a difficult situation after a storm or outage. At the end of the day, utility service is still about serving people, and I think that personal connection will always matter. When asked a lighter question outside the utility world about who he’d most like to sit down with over dinner, his answer came without hesitation. Without question, it would be Dak Prescott. Now realistically, Dak would probably spend dinner wondering why a utility manager from Alabama is staring at him like he’s meeting a superhero, while I’d spend the entire evening trying not to ask too many Cowboys questions in the first five minutes. I’d like to say we’d have deep conversations about leadership, overcoming adversity, and performing under pressure — and hopefully we would — but there’s a strong chance I’d also ask him to explain at least three questionable fourth-quarter decisions from recent seasons. As a Cowboys fan, hope springs eternal. Every season starts with “this could be the year,” and honestly, that kind of optimism probably translates pretty well to the utility business too.

Chickasaw Electric Cooperative General Manager Loyd Muncy has prioritized technology and modernization efforts that strengthen reliability, improve efficiency, and enhance service for his cooperative members. We asked him to share more about the innovations making an impact across Chickasaw Electric Cooperative’s service territory, along with a few projects he is especially proud to see implemented in the community. The Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) has already provided valuable insight into the electric system and will continue to enhance operations as more data is collected and analyzed. AMI has also enabled our team to respond more quickly and accurately to member questions regarding energy usage and outage information. In addition, remote meter reading and remote connect/disconnect capabilities have streamlined operations and reduced field workload. We’re really proud of the way the integrations between our systems have significantly streamlined daily operations and improved service to our members. By integrating our Outage Management System (OMS) with AMI, we receive real-time outage information and can proactively notify members via text message to let them know we are aware of the outage and are responding. Integration with our Geographic Information System (GIS) also allows us to pinpoint fault locations and accurately map where outages or momentary “blinks” occur. In addition, all field crews are equipped with iPads, giving them mobile access to OMS, AMI, and GIS directly from their trucks. This immediate access to system data improves communication, speeds restoration efforts, and enhances overall operational efficiency. Loyd views Seven States as a trusted industry resource and a valuable partner in helping LPCs navigate emerging technologies and evolving energy needs across the Valley. As Chickasaw Electric Cooperative continues exploring new opportunities, he sees collaboration and shared expertise playing an important role in future innovation efforts. As we move forward with storage and DER, we expect to tap into Seven States resources and expertise as we evaluate opportunities, learn from industry experience and continue planning for the future needs of our system and members. While technology continues to transform the utility industry, Muncy believes some aspects of the cooperative model will always depend on personal relationships and direct communication with members. Good old-fashioned troubleshooting and knowledge of the electric system will never completely disappear in the world of technological advancement, and while those skills will always matter, technology and AI are quickly advancing to provide much of that information in real time. What technology cannot replace, however, is the value of face-to-face interaction with our members. Building trust and letting our members know we understand and remain committed to the mission of reliability and affordability will continue to be one of the most important parts of what we do.

Source: Chattanooga Times Free Press | 28 May 2026 | BY DANIEL DASSOW Seven States Power Corp., a Chattanooga-based energy cooperative, will use $439 million in loans and grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to build grid-level batteries across Tennessee. The group announced a 20-megawatt installation in partnership with Johnson City-based public utility BrightRidge on Tuesday as the first investment of its Energy Express project. Seven States won a $415 million zero-interest loan and a $24 million grant last year from the USDA’s Rural Utilities Service. The nonprofit corporation is owned by its members, the 153 local utilities in seven states that buy wholesale electricity from the Tennessee Valley Authority. Seven States was created in 2007 by TVA, the nation’s largest public power provider, and the local utilities that buy electricity from TVA. The co-op was established to help finance power plants, expand energy production and modernize grid infrastructure. Through the Energy Express project, Seven States will build, own and operate up to 220 megawatts of battery storage across Tennessee, said Betsey Kirk McCall, president and CEO of Seven States. “The project will enhance reliability by powering up to 25,000 homes for eight hours,” McCall said at a public comment session before the TVA board May 21. “We will create up to 100 new construction jobs.” Seven States and BrightRidge will focus on improving power reliability and management of unexpected outages while keeping electric rates below the national average, the pair said in a press release. Local utilities in the region can use batteries to reduce their peak power usage, which in turn reduces their power bill to TVA. BrightRidge is evaluating locations for the project, which is expected to support around 5,500 homes and businesses. The partners plan to begin construction in 2027 and complete the installation by December 2028. BrightRidge serves more than 84,000 customers in Carter, Greene, Sullivan and Washington counties. Jeffrey Dykes, CEO of BrightRidge, serves as chair of the Seven States board of directors. “This scalable battery solution is another example of how the team at Seven States is on the leading edge of deploying technologies that will define the future of the energy sector,” Dykes said in the press release. GRID SUPPORT From 2008-13, Seven States and TVA jointly owned the Southaven Power Plant, an 800-megawatt natural gas plant in Mississippi. The joint ownership was meant to help TVA stay within its $30 billion legal debt limit set by Congress in 1979. Since its founding, Seven States has delivered 222 projects with 80 local utilities and received $475 million in state and federal funding for regional grid projects, McCall told the TVA board. The group has helped its members install electric vehicle charging stations, solar power installations, battery systems and natural gas backup generators. Its projects include installations at Dollywood and Rock City. Seven States leaders have promoted the corporation as a financing option within the Tennessee Valley region to help TVA meet rising power demand. Its status as a power generation and transmission coop owned by TVA customers means it has “inherent checks and balances” to keep power costs affordable for ratepayers, McCall said. “Seven States is pursuing additional financing to acquire generation and support more power supply,” McCall said. “Utilizing Seven States to finance power supply is a ready-now solution for unleashing American energy faster.” The group originally announced the USDA funding would go to power generation projects, including solar and battery storage, but now plans to focus solely on battery storage. Contact business reporter Daniel Dassow at ddassow @timesfreepress.com 423-757-6318.

Source: Hoodline | 21 July 2026 | By Bob Norris Memphis Light, Gas & Water is gearing up for a massive battery play that could reshape how Shelby County keeps the lights on and the bills in check. Utility leaders say a new countywide battery storage network could cut pricey wholesale power purchases and help keep electric rates steady well into the next decade. The idea is simple enough, even if the hardware is anything but. MLGW wants large-scale batteries stationed at key substations around the county, ready to kick in when demand spikes and wholesale prices jump. What’s Being Proposed MLGW outlined a plan to install 125 megawatts of battery storage spread across nine substations in Shelby County. The systems would quietly charge up overnight when power is cheaper, then discharge during peak hours to reduce what the utility has to buy from the Tennessee Valley Authority at premium prices. Locations floated by officials include Cordova, Collierville, Whitehaven and North Memphis, according to Action News 5 . It is a far cry from a backup battery in your hallway closet. Project Partners And Funding Regional developer Seven States Power, which is leading the broader Energy Express initiative, is lining up the pieces behind the scenes. The MLGW portion is expected to account for roughly 100 megawatts of a 220-megawatt rollout across Tennessee, supported by about $439 million in zero-interest loans and grants from USDA’s Rural Utilities Service. Seven States Power says construction is scheduled to start in 2027, with a goal of having the full system up and running by December 2028. What City Leaders Were Told Speaking to the Memphis City Council, MLGW President Doug McGowen framed the storage push as a direct play to keep customer bills from climbing. He said the strategy is “designed to push rates downward, down, not up,” and MLGW told council members it does not expect an electric rate increase until after 2030, according to Action News 5 . How This Fits With MLGW’s Earlier Plans This battery push did not come out of nowhere. In March 2025, MLGW issued a request for proposals seeking roughly 100 megawatts of solar generation paired with about 80 megawatts of utility-scale battery storage, along with smaller distribution-level projects. According to MLGW , that RFP let vendors pitch either utility-owned projects or third-party power purchase deals as the utility began testing the waters on local generation and storage. Benefits And Outstanding Questions Seven States estimates the combined battery installations would support power needs for roughly 12,000 homes and create construction jobs along the way. The setup is also expected to limit MLGW’s exposure to the most expensive peak market purchases. But some big pieces still have to fall into place. Siting, permitting and contract details have not been finalized, and the partners say they plan public outreach and technical reviews before any shovels hit the ground, as outlined by Seven States Power . Next steps include more detailed technical studies, regulatory sign-offs, and public briefings before contracts are locked in and crews mobilize in 2027. If the schedule holds, the batteries would be online by December 2028, giving MLGW a new tool to shave peak costs and put continued downward pressure on rates across Shelby County.

Jason Reese, General Manager of Shelbyville Power, Water, and Sewer System, leads his LPC with a focus on the evolving technology that strengthens reliability, improves efficiency, and enhances service for his customers. He took a moment to highlight some of the innovation that is truly making a difference across his community. AMI technology has had the greatest impact on Shelbyville Power, Water, and Sewer Systems and our community. Our system converted to AMI meters nearly 14 years ago, and this technology has enabled us to streamline many manual utility processes and improve operational efficiency in our electric and water systems. AMI electric meters with remote disconnect capabilities have enabled us to remotely disconnect and reconnect customers on the collections list, reducing truck rolls, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing employee safety. AMI water meters allow us to identify water leaks much sooner than was previously possible, benefiting both our customers and our efforts to reduce water loss. Our team is also very proud of our recent pilot distribution automation project installed on three circuits, each served by a different substation, which provide power to Shelbyville's two main corridors. Implementing distribution automation on these circuits helps minimize the number of customers affected during outages or the loss of a power source, improving service reliability for the community. Building on its success, our long-term goal is to expand distribution automation across all eighteen circuits and all three substations to further enhance system reliability, resiliency, and service to our customers. As the Valley continues to evolve and change, Jason knows firsthand that Seven States is a trusted industry resource and a valuable partner in helping LPCs navigate the process of implementing new technology projects. In June 2026, we completed our first EV charger project as part of the TN Fast Charge Network, and I cannot say enough good things about how Seven States and Joe Knox helped guide us through that process. These chargers have already been a hit with our community and have also brought in travelers from out of town to our downtown square. Everything from start to finish went as smoothly as it possibly could, and that is due to Seven States.  While technology continues to transform the utility industry every day, Jason believes some aspects of the system will always depend on the knowledgeable workers who keep everything running behind the scenes. Hands-on infrastructure maintenance is one traditional utility practice that I believe will never completely disappear, regardless of how much technology advances. No matter how sophisticated our systems become, maintaining physical infrastructure will always require skilled workers to perform inspections, repairs, and upgrades in the field. Just as the utility industry is built on connections that span across communities, music has a way of bringing people together, even across generations. When asked which celebrity he would most like to meet for dinner, his choice was a musician who has stood the test of time. It would have to be Elvis Presley. As someone who has a love for all genres of music, to be able to sit down and talk with him about his career and experiences from gospel to rock-n-roll would be an absolute thrill!

As utilities continue evolving to meet changing member expectations, David Smart, President and CEO of West Kentucky Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation (WKRECC), has focused on blending convenience with programs that directly improve quality of life. Smart points to both digital modernization and energy efficiency initiatives as areas where WKRECC has made meaningful strides for its members. One modernization effort that’s impacted our community has been the implementation of a mobile app and other digitized forms that make it easier for members to do business with their cooperative, including drive-thru registration and tablet voting at our annual meeting. Another would be Home Uplift initiatives, home energy audits, cold climate heat pump conversions and other programs we have implemented to improve the standard of living, comfort, and efficiency in our members’ homes.  Innovation at WKRECC has also extended into advanced energy management and distributed energy resources. Smart elaborated on one of the cooperative’s proudest accomplishments involving internally managing demand and system performance. Our team is especially proud of our PowerShift Program, which utilizes our members’ whole home generators and batteries for demand response. The precision and application technology used has allowed us to offset our peak demand successfully. We have built our own DER gateway allowing us to meter, control, and interrogate home generators and inverters, and our own DERMS platform that incorporates an operational load forecast. Even as utilities embrace new technologies and digital tools, Smart believes some longstanding member habits will remain an important part of cooperative culture. Despite all of the technological advances in the utility world, I think many cooperative members will continue to pay their bill in person at one of our offices. Personal interaction and in-office service continue to matter for our members. In an industry focused on infrastructure and technology, Smart recognizes the value of strong communicators and trusted voices who help bring people and communities together. When asked a lighter question about who he’d like to have dinner with, he pointed to a well-known Kentucky figure who brings folks together. If I could have dinner with anyone, I would love to have dinner with the legendary voice of the Wildcats, Cawood Ledford. I think the stories he could tell would be enlightening and fascinating.

June 25, 2026 Seven States Power Corporation, headquartered in Chattanooga, Tenn., is pleased to announce that it will deliver a significant infrastructure investment to modernize the electric grid in partnership with Nashville Electric Service (NES), a municipal public utility based in Nashville, TN. The initiative, named the Energy Express Project, will deploy battery storage as a standalone resource designed to support peak demand, improve grid resiliency, and provide NES with greater operational flexibility. The project is backed by Seven States’ award of a landmark $439 million zero-interest loan and grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities Service (USDA RUS). This announcement follows similar recent announcements related to additional project locations across the state in partnership with Memphis Light, Gas and Water in Memphis, TN and BrightRidge in Johnson City, TN. The approach reflects a strategic decision to prioritize dispatchable energy assets that can respond immediately to system needs. By focusing solely on battery storage, Seven States and its partners aim to enhance reliability, allowing the utilities to better manage demand fluctuations and unexpected outages while maintaining some of the lowest electric rates in the country. “The Energy Express Project demonstrates how federal financing, local ownership, and collaborative partnerships can accelerate deployment of advanced grid technologies to help manage growing demand to meet the region’s energy needs,” said Betsey Kirk McCall, President and CEO of Seven States Power Corporation. “Battery storage provides an innovative tool that aligns with national priorities around energy dominance, affordability, and reliability.” Led by Seven States, the project will consist of 100 megawatts of battery storage capacity interconnected with NES’s electric distribution system. The batteries will be capable of storing energy from the existing grid and deploying it during periods of peak demand or system stress, helping stabilize the grid while reducing exposure to high-cost power purchases. “Our partnership with the team of experts at Seven States will allow us to deliver a battery solution that will modernize our grid, improve operations, and provide reliability for our customers,” said Teresa Broyles-Aplin, president and CEO of NES. “It gives us greater control during peak demand periods and supports our ongoing effort toward reliable energy distribution.” The battery installations will be constructed at several NES substations throughout Greater Nashville. Construction is expected to begin in 2027, with the project targeted for completion by December 2028. Once operational, the initiative is expected to support the electric needs of approximately 12,000 homes and businesses across the Greater Nashville area and create jobs during construction.  Seven States will utilize the award from USDA to build 220MW of battery storage with its electric utility partners in west, middle and east Tennessee. The initiative is among the first of its kind in the Tennessee Valley and represents a significant investment in grid reliability and local energy infrastructure. Seven States and NES view the project as a model for future battery-focused investments across the Southeast.

June 18, 2026 Seven States Power Corporation, headquartered in Chattanooga, Tenn., announced in September a partnership with MLGW that would deliver a significant infrastructure investment to modernize the electric grid in partnership with Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) a municipal public utility based in Memphis, TN. Since that time, the project has expanded beyond its original scope. Originally envisioned as a combined solar-and-storage project, the initiative will now deploy battery storage as a standalone resource designed to support peak demand, improve grid resiliency, and provide MLGW with greater operational flexibility. The project remains backed by Seven States’ award of a landmark $439 million zero-interest loan and grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities Service (USDA RUS). The revised approach reflects a strategic decision to prioritize dispatchable energy assets that can respond immediately to system needs. By focusing solely on battery storage, Seven States and MLGW aim to enhance reliability, allowing the utility to better manage demand fluctuations and unexpected outages while maintaining some of the lowest electric rates in the country. “We are thrilled to build new electric infrastructure to support growing demand and meet the region’s energy needs,” said Betsey Kirk McCall, President and CEO of Seven States Power Corporation. “Battery storage provides a powerful, flexible, and innovative tool that aligns with national priorities around energy dominance, affordability, and reliability.” Led by Seven States Power Corporation, the project will consist of 100 megawatts of battery storage capacity interconnected with MLGW’s electric distribution system. The batteries will be capable of storing energy from the existing grid and deploying it during periods of peak demand or system stress, helping stabilize the grid while reducing exposure to high-cost power purchases. “This scalable battery solution allows us to modernize our grid and improve reliability for our customers,” said Doug McGowen, president and CEO of MLGW. “It gives us greater control during peak demand periods to support power supply to our customers across Memphis and Shelby County.” The battery installations will be constructed at several MLGW substations throughout Memphis and Shelby County. Construction is expected to begin in 2027, with the project targeted for completion by December 2028. Once operational, the initiative is expected to support the electric needs of approximately 12,000 homes and businesses across Shelby County and create jobs during construction. Seven States will utilize the award from USDA to build 220MW of battery storage with its electric utility partners in west, middle and east Tennessee. The initiative is among the first of its kind in the Tennessee Valley, demonstrating how federal financing, local ownership, and collaborative partnerships can accelerate deployment of advanced grid technologies. Seven States and MLGW view the project as a model for future battery-focused investments across the Southeast. Additional Related Articles MLGW, Seven States make deal to deploy battery storage; xAI solar sublease scrapped Memphis leads TN in lead service line removal efforts MLGW proposes battery storage projects to strengthen electric grid

Source: Chattanooga Times Free Press | 28 May 2026 | BY DANIEL DASSOW Seven States Power Corp., a Chattanooga-based energy cooperative, will use $439 million in loans and grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to build grid-level batteries across Tennessee. The group announced a 20-megawatt installation in partnership with Johnson City-based public utility BrightRidge on Tuesday as the first investment of its Energy Express project. Seven States won a $415 million zero-interest loan and a $24 million grant last year from the USDA’s Rural Utilities Service. The nonprofit corporation is owned by its members, the 153 local utilities in seven states that buy wholesale electricity from the Tennessee Valley Authority. Seven States was created in 2007 by TVA, the nation’s largest public power provider, and the local utilities that buy electricity from TVA. The co-op was established to help finance power plants, expand energy production and modernize grid infrastructure. Through the Energy Express project, Seven States will build, own and operate up to 220 megawatts of battery storage across Tennessee, said Betsey Kirk McCall, president and CEO of Seven States. “The project will enhance reliability by powering up to 25,000 homes for eight hours,” McCall said at a public comment session before the TVA board May 21. “We will create up to 100 new construction jobs.” Seven States and BrightRidge will focus on improving power reliability and management of unexpected outages while keeping electric rates below the national average, the pair said in a press release. Local utilities in the region can use batteries to reduce their peak power usage, which in turn reduces their power bill to TVA. BrightRidge is evaluating locations for the project, which is expected to support around 5,500 homes and businesses. The partners plan to begin construction in 2027 and complete the installation by December 2028. BrightRidge serves more than 84,000 customers in Carter, Greene, Sullivan and Washington counties. Jeffrey Dykes, CEO of BrightRidge, serves as chair of the Seven States board of directors. “This scalable battery solution is another example of how the team at Seven States is on the leading edge of deploying technologies that will define the future of the energy sector,” Dykes said in the press release. GRID SUPPORT From 2008-13, Seven States and TVA jointly owned the Southaven Power Plant, an 800-megawatt natural gas plant in Mississippi. The joint ownership was meant to help TVA stay within its $30 billion legal debt limit set by Congress in 1979. Since its founding, Seven States has delivered 222 projects with 80 local utilities and received $475 million in state and federal funding for regional grid projects, McCall told the TVA board. The group has helped its members install electric vehicle charging stations, solar power installations, battery systems and natural gas backup generators. Its projects include installations at Dollywood and Rock City. Seven States leaders have promoted the corporation as a financing option within the Tennessee Valley region to help TVA meet rising power demand. Its status as a power generation and transmission coop owned by TVA customers means it has “inherent checks and balances” to keep power costs affordable for ratepayers, McCall said. “Seven States is pursuing additional financing to acquire generation and support more power supply,” McCall said. “Utilizing Seven States to finance power supply is a ready-now solution for unleashing American energy faster.” The group originally announced the USDA funding would go to power generation projects, including solar and battery storage, but now plans to focus solely on battery storage. Contact business reporter Daniel Dassow at ddassow @timesfreepress.com 423-757-6318.

Today marks a remarkable milestone as the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) celebrated the 90th anniversary of the passage of the Rural Electrification Act and the tremendous impact USDA programs have had on rural communities across the country. For nine decades, USDA has played a vital role in strengthening infrastructure, supporting economic development, and ensuring reliable access to essential services in areas that power the Tennessee Valley and America every day. Seven States Power Corporation is proud to have been mentioned alongside this important work and be recognized in partnership as USDA continues to advance the energy industry. We also want to extend our sincere thanks to Assistant Administrator for the Rural Utilities Service (RUS), Chris McLean, for recognizing Seven States and our new borrower status with USDA. Our partnership with USDA RUS represents an exciting new chapter for Seven States and reflects the shared commitment between our organizations to invest in abundant and affordable energy. “Once infrastructure is created, it must be nurtured, maintained, and improved over time. Today, we not only celebrate our history, we also celebrate our bright and shining future,” said McLean. McLean noted that USDA has longstanding relationships with borrowers dating back to 1930 and added that the agency is now working with new borrowers like Seven States. As energy demand continues to grow across the Tennessee Valley, we are excited about the opportunities this partnership creates to finance energy assets, expand power production and modernize grid infrastructure. Please join us in congratulating USDA on this special 90th Anniversary celebration!  Click here for the USDA press release and photos from today’s celebration event.

June 29, 2026 The latest expansion of the Fast Charge TN network will open on Monday, June 29, in the parking lot of 175 Washington Street, across from Lost Pizza Company. The location of the Collierville site is ideal because of its proximity to the I-269 corridor and access to food and retail. The site has three Level-3 charging stations that can fully charge an electric vehicle in about 15-20 minutes.  With this site, there are now seven Fast Charge locations in Shelby County. Memphis Light, Gas and Water received a grant from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) to open fast charging stations. The Collierville site is also a partnership with Seven States Power Company and the Town of Collierville.

Seven States Power Leadership traveled to Washington, D.C., February 23–25 to meet with members of the Tennessee Valley congressional delegation while attending the American Public Power Association (APPA) Legislative Rally with the nation’s public power electric utilities. Seven States Board Chair, Jeff Dykes, (CEO, BrightRidge) and President & CEO, Betsey Kirk McCall engaged with federal leaders to advocate for more power supply, educate on the flexible financing available to Seven States as a generation and transmission cooperative, and build relationships with federal representatives on key energy issues. A central focus of the meetings was providing an update on Seven States’ Energy Express project, an initiative designed to support growth in the Tennessee Valley with 220MW of additional capacity. This project will be funded with a $439 million award by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Rural Utilities Service. McCall and Dykes also led discussions highlighting how Seven States serves as an in-Valley solution to the Tennessee Valley Authority’s current debt constraint challenges. Through its financing capabilities, Seven States can own utility-scale power plants and double the impact of TVA’s capital investments, thereby expanding production and modernizing grid infrastructure. McCall and Dykes worked to educate policymakers about how aligning objectives and encouraging the use of Seven States as a mechanism for short- and mid-term financing solutions can unleash American energy faster. McCall plans to attend the NRECA Legislative Conference April 26 – 28 in Washington D.C. to continue these efforts with the nation’s electric cooperatives.