Norris Dam Tour Showcases Hydropower’s Vital Contribution to Tennessee Energy Needs

Norris Dam Tour Highlights Hydropower’s Role in Tennessee

Knoxville, Tennessee – Elected officials from Knoxville and Knox County recently took a guided tour of the iconic Norris Dam, a key asset in the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) hydropower system. The tour, which took place ahead of National Hydropower Day on August 24, offered a glimpse into the operations and infrastructure behind one of the country’s most significant public power providers.

Behind the Scenes with Local Leaders

The group, which included six elected officials and several key staff members, explored the 90-year-old dam located about 25 miles north of Knoxville. This initiative was born out of a breakfast conversation between TVA Community Relations Manager Bryan Johnson and Knox County Commissioner Larsen Jay, who discussed the importance of educational experiences for local leaders.

As the officials commenced the tour, they were greeted by the dam’s impressive structure – a 265-foot tall concrete gravity dam that measures 1,860 feet long. The dam is named after Nebraska Senator George Norris, the architect of the TVA legislation, which aimed to provide affordable electricity to the region.

A Closer Look at Hydropower Operations

During the visit, TVA officials showcased how the dam harnesses hydropower to generate energy. Specifically, Norris Dam has two large generators that can each produce 65 megawatts of electricity, enough to power approximately 75,000 homes. This is achieved by using 24,000 gallons of water from Norris Lake every second to turn the massive turbines.

Tour guide Erik Bodiscomassink, who manages Norris Dam and two other TVA hydroelectric plants, pointed out the importance of preventative maintenance, as approximately 85% of the staff’s duties focus on this area. At any time, only five TVA employees typically operate the dam, which can function autonomously after hours through remote monitoring.

Unique Features and Safety Measures

The dam consists of a sluice gate gallery, a tunnel where operators can control the sluice gates that regulate water flow downstream. This feature adds a layer of safety and control, allowing the dam to manage water levels effectively and prevent flooding. When water levels rise too high, extraordinary measures may be required to ensure safety.

Officials noted that the dam is equipped with a system of sirens designed to alert nearby fishermen about potential changes in water flow, helping to keep them safe while they enjoy their recreational activities.

Community Impact and Future of Hydropower

Over the years, Norris Dam has welcomed hundreds of thousands of visitors, serving not just as a power provider but as an educational resource within the community. The TVA aims to maintain a steady supply of hydropower to support energy needs, particularly during peak demand periods.

Officials on the tour expressed their admiration for the dam’s architectural beauty and functionality. City Councilmember Amelia Parker even remarked that the sluice gate gallery reminded her of the settings in popular movies, showcasing the dam’s striking aesthetics and significance.

Preserving History and Infrastructure

As part of their efforts to maintain the dam’s rich history, TVA staff recently restored a mural that depicts the TVA system, which dates back to the 1950s. The artwork, once covered and damaged, was unveiled during celebrations for the dam’s 80th anniversary in 2016.

The visit to Norris Dam highlighted the essential role hydropower plays in Tennessee’s energy landscape and the importance of maintaining and educating the community about such infrastructures. With ongoing advancements and a commitment to conservation, the TVA continues to be a leader in renewable energy.