RUTLEDGE — The Tennessee Valley Authority is inviting the public to review and comment on its Preliminary Final 2026 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) and the accompanying Environmental Impact Statement as it plans for the region’s future energy needs.

According to TVA, the IRP is a long-term planning study that evaluates options for meeting growing electricity demand across its seven-state service area over the next 20 years while maintaining reliable and affordable power.

The plan considers factors including population growth, increased demand from data centers, federal policy changes and the role of renewable, fossil fuel and nuclear energy sources.

Public comments will be accepted through Wednesday, July 22.

TVA will also host a public webinar on Thursday, July 2 to provide an overview of the preliminary plan and explain how residents can participate in the review process.

TVA’s recommended planning strategy will be presented to the TVA Board of Directors for consideration during its August 2026 meeting. Additional information including the full plan and webinar registration is available on the TVA website.