TVA uses new way to generate solar energy in Chattanooga

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – TVA selected the Chickamauga Dam as the location to show off their new Smart Flowers.

“We got five solar panels or solar flowers right here at Chickamauga dam to showcase them to show the public. Solar can be beautiful, and it can be smart,” said Scott Feidler, TVA Spokesperson. 

 TVA identifies itself as a clean energy leader that provides safe, reliable and affordable electricity. 

Scott Feidler with TVA believes these smart flowers can be used as a new way for solar energy.  

“Solar can be used in a variety of real ways,” said Feidler. ” Solar flowers is one of those innovative ways to use solar energy.”

According to TVA the smart flowers are 16 feet wide and on each of them there are 12 solar panels that follow the sun. 

Fiedler says these smart flowers also can power almost two homes. 

“As we build out 10,000 megawatts of solar, these are things that we could put around town at schools. Things that they can people can get in involved and help out,’ Feidler said. 

The Smart flowers are a part of several solar technologies at TVA facilities throughout the Tennessee Valley. 

 However, Fiedler says it’s all about using these smart flowers to create a clean environment. 

“The big picture is how can we use solar power in new ways, let it look different, look beautiful and power our modern lives in a clean way,” Feidler concludes.