Ever wonder how TVA decides where to build a new generation plant? It’s a complex process that considers many factors and requires a variety of accurate, up-to-date data points about the area in question. Since TVA’s inception in 1933, GIS and Mapping technology has played a critical role.
A long history
In years past, new generation siting involved identifying and selecting locations for many of the TVA plants we operate today – such as our hydro, nuclear, gas and coal facilities. Today, as we design an energy system for the future that focuses on efficiency, sustainability and environmental responsibility, it includes increased siting for renewable energy generation, such as solar farms, battery storage and new nuclear. By strategically selecting these sites, TVA can optimize energy output while minimizing negative environmental or other impacts.
“When TVA celebrated its 90th year in 2023, so did its GIS (Geographic Information System) and Mapping department. Originally called the Engineering Service Division, the department was established in the early days of the construction of Norris Dam in 1933,” said David Michaels, Program Manager, GIS and Mapping.
The name was changed several times over the years—to the Maps and Surveys Division, then to the Mapping Services Branch and finally to GIS and Mapping. Regardless of the name, mapping services is something TVA has become known for, with a long history of accomplishments. This includes:
- Pioneering the use of aerial photographs as a base for property surveys of large areas.
- Working with the Department of Defense to invent the topographic quadrangle map.
- Playing a role in World War II, by producing 70 million maps with information critical to the invasion of Normandy.
- Creating 923 topographic quadrangle maps of the Tennessee Valley region and partnering with the U.S. Geological Survey on another 1,300 plus maps.
- Developing over 5 million maps and pertinent documents for other TVA departments and the general public.
Today’s technology
When siting a new generation facility today, GIS analysts use a sophisticated scripted computer model developed in close collaboration with other TVA subject matter experts. The model considers more than 80 different parameters, including proximity to transmission lines, flood zone areas, environmental and economic impacts on surrounding communities and cultural resources. Models are then applied to existing sites to determine suitability or used to identify new tracts of land that would meet the parameters.
“Based on the data provided by the model, sites are scored, and the results are presented on a dashboard providing insight into the evaluation process,” said Adia Boston Ogle, Manager GIS and Mapping. “This automated process doesn’t require as many employee hours or resources and work can be done on multiple sites at the same time.”
To date, the team has assessed 248 sites for potential solar farms and 239 sites for potential battery energy storage systems (BESS), including TVA’s first owned and operated lithium-ion battery in Vonore, Tennessee. GIS and Mapping also had an active role in siting TVA’s proposed pumped storage in Jackson County, Alabama and has supported siting efforts for the New Nuclear program.
“The repeatable, objective process developed by the GIS team helps our planners identify sites that meet the criteria and, perhaps more importantly, avoid those that pose risks or conflict. It is an important link in the chain as we work to modernize the grid,” said Aaron Melda, Senior Vice President Transmission and Power Supply.
In addition to new generation siting, today’s GIS and Mapping team manages the content of TVA’s Enterprise Geographic Information System map and works on a wide range of projects supporting organizations across the enterprise. This includes:
- Preparing 3D visualization
- Developing complex multi-application GIS-based workflows like TVA’s Cultural Resources Management System
- Providing wildfire and other situational awareness tools for Emergency Management
- Configuring over 15 mobile field GIS applications for Transmission, Environment, Dam Safety and other TVA field workers
“GIS and Mapping has evolved quite a bit over the years when it comes to technology and agency needs,” said Adia. “We’re excited about the role this this team will play in TVA’s future.”