Newly established Energy Task Force to create a Community Energy Resource Plan
Published on December 5, 2024
A rapidly changing energy environment prompted the City of Huntsville and Huntsville Utilities to establish a task force to develop a forward-looking approach to energy planning. Working with consulting engineering firm Black & Veatch, a 12-member Energy Task Force will create a Community Energy Resource Plan (CERP) to guide the City’s energy strategy into the future.
“As our community grows, we must proactively address our energy needs,” said Wes Kelly, CEO of Huntsville Utilities. “This task force will explore every option and approach to ensure a sustainable and resilient energy future for our customers and the City of Huntsville.”
The Energy Task Force will look at future power needs and increased demand, identify potential changes and opportunities and examine how Huntsville Utilities are structured and works within the TVA system.
“Huntsville’s growth is driven by energy, and we want to be certain we are set up for success in the 21st century,” Mayor Tommy Battle said. “With energy demand growing exponentially, we’re looking for dynamic energy solutions.”
A City Council resolution establishing the task force cited conversations with the Tennessee Valley Authority encouraging its partners to explore contractual opportunities that will further increase flexibility and support diversified energy options. The resolution noted the rapid rise of peak-period energy needs, which demands more investment in critical infrastructure to sustain the growth and vitality of the Huntsville community.
Mayor Battle and Kelly said tackling these challenges is what Huntsville does best – proactively planning and developing for the new and different energy world that lies ahead.
Key topics the task force and consultants will address include:
- Huntsville Utilities/TVA Fundamentals and the Changing Energy Landscape
- Economic Development and Community Growth
- Demand Response and Energy Efficiency Programs
- Transmission and Distribution Smart Grid Solutions
- Local Generation Options
- Legal and Governance Implications
Appointments to the Energy Task Force will be made by Mayor Battle (3 appointments), City Council (5 appointments), Huntsville Utilities (3 appointments), and the Huntsville-Madison County Chamber of Commerce (1 appointment).
The task force is expected to conclude its work by the end of summer 2025 when it will present the CERP document to Huntsville Utilities’ boards and City Council. The entity will sunset at the end of 2025.