Proposed pipeline project faces legal challenges over environmental risks
Environmental groups have filed a lawsuit against the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) over its approval of a pipeline slated to supply methane gas to a new Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) power plant in Middle Tennessee.
Anita Wadhwani reports for Tennessee Lookout.
In short:
- The Sierra Club and Appalachian Voices are challenging FERC's approval of the 32-mile pipeline, citing risks to communities and natural resources along the route.
- The controversial pipeline will supply methane gas to a TVA plant, one of several gas-powered plants TVA has proposed, despite environmental criticism.
- The pipeline's route will impact predominantly poor or Black communities, and environmentalists warn of higher energy costs and climate damage.
Key quote:
“FERC is supposed to safeguard the public interest, not rubberstamp unnecessary pipeline projects that will harm our communities, hurt the climate, and contribute to higher power bills.”
— Spencer Gall, senior attorney, Southern Environmental Law Center
Why this matters:
Environmental groups argue that such projects exacerbate climate change and lead to health and financial burdens for already vulnerable communities. Read more: Protesting oil and gas pipeline development harms mental health and creates distrust in government.
