News Summary
Residents in Southwest Memphis are raising alarms about pollution linked to the Tennessee Valley Authority’s proposed methane gas project at the Allen CT Plant. During a recent public hearing, many expressed fears that their community is being treated as a pollution dumping ground, and voiced skepticism about whether replacing coal units with methane turbines will truly improve air quality. While some support the project’s potential for job creation, residents demand a focus on eliminating pollution rather than simply reducing it. The Shelby County Health Department continues to accept public comments until July 10.
Memphis – Tensions are rising in Southwest Memphis as community members voice pollution concerns over the Tennessee Valley Authority’s (TVA) proposed project at the Allen Combustion Turbine (CT) Plant. On June 27, 2025, the Shelby County Health Department held a public hearing to discuss the permit for TVA’s natural gas aeroderivative project, which aims to replace 16 older coal units with six large, permanent methane gas turbines.
During the hearing, dozens of residents expressed their discontent and voiced objections, emphasizing their belief that their community is being treated as a “dumping ground” for pollution. Community members highlighted the urgency of their concerns, citing a commitment to maintain air quality for their families, especially for children who are affected by air pollution.
If the permit is approved, it could mark a significant shift in how energy is produced at the facility. Supporters of the project, including union workers, argue that the new methane turbines would produce less pollution compared to the existing coal-fired units, making it a beneficial change in the long run. Union representatives emphasized the importance of creating jobs tied to the installation of the new turbines, valuing both employment opportunities and environmental health in their community.
Residents are also reminded of the initial sentiments expressed during previous discussions about the project back in April 2025. Many community members remain skeptical about whether the proposed change is a true solution to their air quality concerns or simply a reduction in pollution levels that still leaves their concerns unaddressed. The stark view presented by some participants at the public hearing was that they prefer “no poison” rather than “higher or less poison,” underlining a clear call for comprehensive solutions rather than incremental improvements.
Representatives from the union stressed that the job creation associated with the project was essential for local families and the community as a whole. They believe that the benefits of job creation should not come at the expense of air quality, asserting that the two priorities must go hand in hand for a sustainable future.
The Shelby County Health Department will accept public comments on the proposal until July 10, 2025. After the comment period concludes, the department plans to collaborate with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on reviewing the permit application. However, as of now, there is no defined timeline for when a final decision regarding the permit will be made.
This situation embodies the ongoing debate in many communities where there is a struggle to find the balance between economic development, job creation, and the imperative need for clean air. As resident concerns grow, it remains to be seen how local officials will address these environmental matters amid the prospects of job opportunities that the new turbines could bring.
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