U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery) believes that the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is making the right decision when it comes to extending the life of two coal plants.

Last week, the TVA Board of Directors approved keeping the Kingston and Cumberland Fossil Plants running longer than originally planned. This is a part of the Administration’s energy dominance strategy to prioritize domestic energy production they believe strengthens America’s economy and security.

Britt lauded the decision, saying it is a much needed reversal of the energy policies enacted by former President Joe Biden.

“Glad to see the TVA take this decisive action to bolster Alabama’s grid security,” Britt said. “The Biden Administration’s anti-energy policies would have resulted in 3,800MW of reliable power being removed from the grid — enough to power 3 million homes!”

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, coal generation increased 31% during Winter Storm Fern – accounting for 21% of U.S. power output – while solar, wind and hydropower dropped significantly. TVA’s coal fleet reliably delivered 14% of the region’s power during peak demand on January 27, ensuring reliability when it mattered most.

“TVA is building America’s energy future while keeping the lights on today,” said Don Moul, TVA President and CEO. “Our mission is clear: provide reliable, affordable power for the 10 million people we serve. Taking steps to continue operations at Cumberland and Kingston and completing new generation under construction are essential to meet surging demand and power our region’s growing economy.”

Britt also believes it’s needed to keep up with the increasing demand.

“Now more than ever, we need electrons on the grid,” she said. “Coal plays a critical role in fueling American energy dominance, and I remain committed to fighting for those who power America.”

Yaffee is a contributing writer to Yellowhammer News and hosts “The Yaffee Program” weekdays 9-11 a.m. on WVNN. You can follow him on X @Yaffee