The biggest solar energy unit in TVA’s seven-state region debuted in Knoxville on Thursday using the 2 millionth solar module produced at Sharp Corp.’s Memphis facility.
The system includes 4,608 Sharp-produced solar modules and will generate nearly 1.2 million kilowatt-hours of energy each year for the Knoxville Utility Board under TVA’s Generation Partners program.
Gov. Phil Bredesen said the project “exemplifies Tennessee’s leadership in deploying solar power and developing clean energy technology solutions that will create good jobs and foster greater energy independence for our country.”
The solar system was designed and built by Natural Energy Group and will be operated by Powell, Tenn.-based Efficient Energy of Tennessee LLC. The solar array will eliminate the greenhouse gases that would otherwise be emitted by the consumption of 2,000 barrels of oil.