Knoxville Officials Tour Celebrated Hydropower Facility Ahead of National Hydropower Day
Knoxville officials took a fascinating tour of the Norris Dam this week, as they sought to understand better the workings of hydropower and its significance in the region. Located approximately 25 miles north of the city, Norris Dam is a key project of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and a prime example of early renewable energy initiatives in the United States.
A Memorable Visit
The tour, which included a mix of elected officials and senior government staff, was highlighted by Bryan Johnson, TVA’s Community Relations Manager, who organized the event following discussions with Knox County Commissioner Larsen Jay. Their conversation stemmed from a Knox Education Foundation breakfast event in July, where Johnson suggested that a behind-the-scenes tour would enlighten officials about the local energy infrastructure.
The tour conveniently occurred just days before National Hydropower Day on August 24, a day dedicated to recognizing hydropower as a long-standing renewable energy resource.
Exploring the Dam
As the group gathered at the dam, they were greeted by Erik Bodiscomassink, the plant manager at Norris Dam, who led them inside the impressive structure. The officials, donned in safety gear, hesitated at the daunting sight of 130 steep steps leading up to the top of the dam, opting instead to focus on the dam’s inner workings. The architecture of the dam, a sturdy gravity dam, is designed to remain in place due to its massive weight.
There was a surprise for many as they discovered the dam is an impressive 265 feet tall and stretches 1,860 feet long. The officials marveled at the sluice gate gallery, a hallway that runs across the dam’s spillway, where one council member even recalled scenes reminiscent of action movies.
Understanding Hydropower Production
Norris Dam plays a crucial role in energy production, with two generators capable of providing power to around 75,000 homes. Each generator has a capacity of 65 megawatts, which requires a staggering 24,000 gallons of lake water every second to generate electricity. The water flows through 20-foot diameter penstocks that transport it from the intake to the turbines.
During the tour, officials learned that maintenance is an integral part of the dam’s operations, with five TVA staff members managing the facility day-to-day. About 85% of their work focuses on preventative maintenance, ensuring that the dam continues to operate smoothly.
Environmental Considerations
As water flows from the dam to the Clinch River, TVA takes care to support local wildlife. The agency aerates the water to improve its oxygen content, beneficial for aquatic life downstream. Nearby, a smaller dam ensures precise control over water flow, alerting nearby fishers of any surges through loud sirens.
A Rich History
Constructed between 1933 and 1936, Norris Dam is not just an engineering marvel but also a piece of American history. The dam is named after Senator George Norris of Nebraska, who was instrumental in creating the TVA system. Recently, TVA staff discovered and restored a remarkable 1950s mural that had been covered for years, linking the present day with the significant past.
Conclusion
This tour afforded Knoxville’s government officials a unique opportunity to appreciate the engineering, history, and environmental stewardship associated with Tennessee’s hydropower generation. With numerous visitors and its role in supplying reliable energy, Norris Dam remains a vital asset to the local community and an important public resource in the TVA’s portfolio.
