News

TWO LOCAL SCHOOLS AWARDED TVA STEM GRANTS

Ralph Askins Elementary School and Lincoln County High School have both been awarded $5,000 grants from the Tennessee Valley Authority, in partnership with Bicentennial Volunteers, Inc., a TVA retiree organization, to develop STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) projects that spark students’ interests in STEM-related careers.

Teachers across TVA’s seven-state region applied for funding of up to $5,000 through a competitive process, with preference given to applications that explore TVA’s primary areas of focus: environment, energy, economic development and community problem solving. The program awarded $1.5 million to 342 applicants over the past year. Schools receiving grant funds must obtain their power from a local power company served by TVA. Ralph Askins Elementary School and Lincoln County High School are both served by Fayetteville Public Utilities.

“Fayetteville Public Utilities is honored to partner with TVA to provide local schools with opportunities to further STEM education,” said FPU CEO/General Manager Britt Dye. “Educators create the workforce of tomorrow, and we are excited to assist them with projects to promote innovative thinking, build educational foundations and inspire students to explore careers in STEM fields.”

Lincoln County High School will use its $5,000 grant to support hands-on STEM learning through the school’s upcoming STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) Night and ongoing classroom instruction. According to Marty LeBlanc, engineering and robotics instructor at LCHS, the funding will be used to purchase equipment and materials that will create interactive learning stations for students and families at the event while continuing to support engineering, robotics and STEM classes throughout the year.

“This approach allows us to maximize the impact of the funding by supporting both community engagement and ongoing classroom learning,” LeBlanc said. “STEAM Night provides valuable exposure to STEM opportunities while the equipment continues to benefit students long after the event.”

Ralph Askins Elementary School will use its $5,000 grant to provide hands-on science experiences for fourth grade students through a classroom project focused on ecosystems. According to Lora Beard, fourth grade science and social studies teacher at Ralph Askins, students will design and create their own functioning terrariums as part of a “Life in a Jar” project that allows them to observe how living and nonliving components interact within a closed environment.

“This grant allows my students to move beyond textbooks and truly experience science,” Beard said. “Many of my students learn best through hands-on activities, and this project will give them ownership of their learning while fostering curiosity, responsibility and critical thinking.”

Since 2018, TVA and Bicentennial Volunteers, Inc., have provided nearly $8 million in STEM awards supporting more than 730,000 students across the region. A full list of grant recipients as well as STEM resources and information on how to apply for a future STEM grant can be found at tva.com/stem.

[On hand for the check presentation at Lincoln County High School were (from left) FPU CEO/General Manager Britt Dye, TVA Community Relations Specialist Tamieka Russell, Engineering and Robotics Instructor Marty LeBlanc, Computer Science Teacher Dr. Amanda McBride, Principal Amy Clemons and FPU Key Accounts/Economic Development Representative Nickie Tucker.

On hand for the check presentation at Ralph Askins Elementary School were (from left) FPU CEO/General Manager Britt Dye, 4th Grade Science and Social Studies Teacher Lora Beard, TVA Community Relations Specialist Tamieka Russell, FPU Key Accounts/Economic Development Representative Nickie Tucker and FPU Assistant Manager Kim Posey.]

FPU AND TVA DISTRIBUTE ENERGYRIGHT COMMUNITY KITS TO FAMILIES IN NEED

Fayetteville Public Utilities (FPU) and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) are partnering with Hands of Mercy Outreach Center to distribute 600 energy-saving kits to help local families reduce energy costs and improve comfort in their homes.

FPU CEO/General Manager Britt Dye presented the TVA EnergyRight Community Kits to Tina Hudson of Hands of Mercy, marking a continued collaboration focused on providing residents with long-lasting solutions to help reduce energy use.

TVA EnergyRight Community Kits are designed for do-it-yourself installation and are intended to reduce energy burdens for several years. Each kit includes practical tools such as advanced power strips, water-saving aerators and showerheads, door sweeps, LED nightlights and information about TVA EnergyRight rebates to help improve comfort and lower costs.

Hands of Mercy received a pallet of 600 kits to be distributed beginning in January to qualifying clients receiving food assistance. The initiative reflects a shared commitment by TVA and FPU to strengthen the community by addressing energy efficiency, affordability and long-term sustainability.

“Part of our mission as a local utility company is to enhance the quality of life for our community and those we serve,” Dye said. “The TVA EnergyRight Community Kits are a simple but meaningful way to help families save energy and money. We are grateful for the work Hands of Mercy does in our community and appreciate their willingness to participate in this program by distributing these kits to people in our community who can benefit from them the most.”

For more information about TVA EnergyRight programs and rebates, customers are encouraged to contact Fayetteville Public Utilities at 931-433-1522 or visit EnergyRight.com.

[FPU CEO/General Manager Britt Dye delivers Hands of Mercy Director Tina Hudson a pallet of TVA EnergyRight Community Kits that will be distributed to local families in need.]

FPU PARTNERS WITH TVA TO ASSIST LINCOLN HEALTH FOUNDATION

Fayetteville Public Utilities (FPU) is continuing its partnership with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) to support local initiatives by participating in the Community Care Fund program. This fund helps utility companies, like FPU, meet immediate needs in their communities by providing matching funds to support local organizations with resources, programs and assistance.

This year’s combined contribution of $14,000 was awarded to Huntsville Hospital’s Lincoln Health System Foundation, a local nonprofit organization that raises funds to support community health and wellness while promoting awareness of Lincoln Health’s providers and services. The foundation’s efforts help provide vital equipment, facility improvements and resources for patients and their families.

The funds donated by TVA and FPU will help purchase supplies and support the purchase of a Mobile Medical Unit (MMU). The unit will enable clinical specialists to promote preventive health care through community screenings, free clinics and educational programs.

The decision to acquire the MMU was driven by the belief that everyone deserves access to quality, community-based care regardless of financial means. It will provide general health care, education on preventable and manageable diseases and routine screenings such as cholesterol, glucose, blood pressure, height/weight, lung function and flu vaccines.

“The goal is to bring essential health services directly to Lincoln County communities and help individuals facing physical or financial barriers make informed, positive health choices,” stated Lincoln Health Foundation Executive Director Beth Simms. “We are extremely grateful to receive this grant! We thank FPU and TVA for their generous gift which will allow us to help Lincoln Health serve our community by providing access to health care for all.”

“The Lincoln Health Foundation provides many valuable services to our community,” said FPU CEO/General Manager Britt Dye. "We hope this donation supports their efforts to secure a Mobile Medical Unit and continue improving health and quality of life for local families."

[FPU CEO/General Manager Britt Dye presents the Lincoln Health Foundation with a check for $14,000 made possible by the Community Care Fund. From left: Matt Groce, Laura Clark, Beth Simms, Britt Dye, Tina Baker and Brian Rives.]

FPU'S DYE JOINS PANEL OF UTILITY LEADERS AT TVPPA CONFERENCE

The Tennessee Valley Public Power Association (TVPPA) held its 79th Annual Conference in Biloxi, Mississippi, on May 19 through May 21. This year’s event focused on turning insights into action with content centered on data-driven decisions, workforce development and system resilience.

At the conference, Fayetteville Public Utilities’ CEO/General Manager Britt Dye was invited to join a panel of experts to discuss topics that are relevant to the utility industry. A crowd of over 500 utility leaders listened as the panel addressed pivotal issues related to recruiting, training and retaining the workforce. Panelists shared how building unique partnerships and creating program initiatives can strengthen workforce pipelines, increase industry awareness and provide career opportunities.

When the panel was asked to discuss the need for proactive leadership in addressing staffing challenges, Dye responded, “At FPU, we have a succession plan in place to ensure business continuity when positions become vacant. We also believe in connecting with young job seekers who are interested in working in the industry. By allowing them to explore and train in various departments, we help them discover the career that is most suitable for them.”

The group of experts shared valuable perceptions about how they build industry awareness and how their insight has led to action. Dye described FPU’s commitment to giving back to the community through volunteering at local organizations, helping with outreach projects and supporting school initiatives.

Panelists were asked to explain how their leadership has created a workplace culture to retain employees. When it was Dye’s turn to respond, he stressed, “It is important to let your employees know how much you appreciate them. Not a day goes by when I don’t tell employees how much I value them. As they work in the community, our employees represent who we are not only as a utility but also as a friend to those we serve. You can’t take that type of dedication for granted.”

TVPPA Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer Danette Scudder was the group facilitator. Serving as panelists alongside Dye were Electric Board of Guntersville General Manager Jason Kirkland, Tombigbee Electric Power Association CEO Scott Hendrix, Gallatin Department of Electricity Human Resources and Administrative Services Director Jaerica Troutt.

[During TVPPA’s Annual Conference, FPU CEO/General Manager Britt Dye (middle) answers questions posed by TVPPA Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer Danette Scudder (right). Gallatin Department of Electricity Human Resources and Administrative Services Director Jaerica Troutt (left) joins the discussion.]

THE STORY OF FPU: HONORING 90 YEARS OF DEDICATION TO THE COMMUNITY

The story of Fayetteville Public Utilities is one of dedication and service. FPU’s purpose remains the same today as it did when the company was established. The utility exists to strengthen the community and improve the quality of life for those living in Fayetteville and Lincoln County.

2025 marks the 90-year anniversary of rural electrification in Lincoln County and the partnership between the Tennessee Valley Authority and Fayetteville Public Utilities. On October 1, 1935, the first electric light bulb was lit in the Blanche community, and the county made headlines in area newspapers as one of the first electric cooperatives to be formed in the state.

FPU’s roots lie in necessity. As Fayetteville residents enjoyed the luxuries of electricity generated by the Tennessee Electric Power Company, rural neighbors and farmers were almost completely without electric service. Those in the county rallied to form their own electric cooperative, the Lincoln County Electric Membership Corporation.

To lower costs, the city decided to leave the privately owned Tennessee Electric Power Company, construct its own electric utility and buy power from TVA. This marked the birth of the Fayetteville Electric Light and Power Company in 1937.

In 1963, with two electric companies serving Fayetteville and Lincoln County, local governments made the decision to merge the two utilities into the Fayetteville Electric System. This merger created a unique electric system for residents as it operated as a municipality as well as an electric cooperative.

The Fayetteville Board of Mayor and Alderman elected to combine the city’s three utilities. In addition to the Fayetteville Electric System, the city was also served by Fayetteville Water and Wastewater System, which installed its first water works infrastructure in 1898, and Fayetteville Gas System, which began serving residents in 1949. In 2002, the three utilities merged to create Fayetteville Public Utilities.

Not only would FPU bring lights, water, wastewater and natural gas services to the people of Fayetteville and Lincoln County, but it would also create a connection to the outside world. In 1999, FPU became the first utility in Tennessee to offer cable and internet, and in July 2009, FPU added digital phone service to its telecommunications department.

The visionaries who laid the foundation of the utility were true giants and would be proud of FPU today. However, modern infrastructure would look vastly different than it did in their day. Technological advances have revolutionized the way FPU operates, and those advancements are attributed in part to the fortitude and determination of those early leaders.

“For 90 years, TVA and FPU have worked together to ensure Lincoln County and surrounding communities receive reliable, safe and affordable electric service,” said TVA President and CEO Don Moul. “We appreciate and value our partnership with FPU and look forward to continuing to work together and serve the people in these communities.”

“Our partnership with TVA is crucial for delivering essential services that enhance everyday life for those in our community,” said FPU CEO/General Manager Britt Dye. “In addition to providing power, we work with TVA on initiatives such as grid modernization and green programs to meet the evolving needs of our customers. We are proud to be a partner with TVA and appreciate their support.”

“FPU has been fortunate to have great people who have worked hard to build a strong and reliable utility infrastructure,” added Dye. "Those people have been instrumental in providing essential services that enhance economic growth and significantly improve the quality of life. FPU’s story is a testament to the belief that a company is not defined by the building in which it is housed but by its people. The employees, customers and community have shaped this organization throughout its history and will continue to guide the utility in the future.”

[To commemorate the 90th anniversary of rural electrification in Lincoln County and the partnership between Fayetteville Public Utilities and the Tennessee Valley Authority, TVA presents FPU with the Tennessee Valley Authority Board of Directors Award. From left, TVA Energy Services Consultant Megan Keen, TVA Community Relations Manager Tamieka Russell, FPU CEO/General Manager Britt Dye, TVA Customer Relations Manager Lynn Huffstetler, TVA Regulatory Analyst II Tamia Jones and Sr Director Customer Relations Ernie Peterson.]

FPU'S BRITT DYE APPOINTED TO TENNESSEE BOARD OF UTILITY REGULATION

In October, Governor Bill Lee appointed Fayetteville Public Utilities’ (FPU) CEO/General Manager Britt Dye to the Tennessee Board of Utility Regulation (TBOUR) to fill the vacancy of Active Employee of a Municipal Water Utility. Dye will serve the remainder of the term which takes effect immediately and runs through June 30, 2026.

In a congratulatory letter to Dye, Governor Lee stated, “In the thorough, aggressive search for candidates, your individual characteristics and professional qualifications were exceptional among the number of nominees who expressed interest. I consider it very important to ensure that Tennessee’s boards and commissions are filled with the most dedicated and qualified citizens. I believe that your participation is certain to leave a positive impact on this board and the work it does.”

TBOUR supports natural gas, water and wastewater public utility systems by ensuring that they are financially self-supporting. The board addresses certain complaints by utility district customers, approves and disapproves the creation of new utility districts, establishes the parameters for water accountability and reviews matters related to misconduct, neglect or training. The board is composed of eleven board members who are appointed to four-year terms.

“I appreciate Governor Lee appointing me to the Tennessee Board of Utility Regulation,” said Dye. “It is a tremendous honor and an outstanding opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. I look forward to actively serving alongside the other board members as we work together to improve the quality of life for those who call Tennessee home.”

[Fayetteville Public Utilities’ CEO/General Manager Britt Dye is appointed by Governor Bill Lee to serve on the Tennessee Board of Utility Regulation.]

FPU CUTS THE RIBBON ON EV CHARGING STATIONS

It was a time of celebration Wednesday morning as Fayetteville Public Utilities (FPU) officially cut the ribbon on its electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.
Representatives from FPU, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and Seven States Power Corporation along with state and local officials gathered at 110 College Street West in downtown Fayetteville to celebrate the installation of 2 EV fast chargers.

FPU CEO/General Manager Britt Dye welcomed guests to the ribbon cutting to officially open the EV charging stations and to celebrate the utility’s entry into the Fast Charge Tennessee Network. As part of the network, the Fayetteville chargers will appear on maps EV drivers use to find nearby charging stations.

FPU partnered with TVA and TDEC as well as Seven States Power Corporation to install these charging stations and help ensure that Fayetteville is ready for the growth of electric transportation with public, fast charging infrastructure. Grant funding from TVA and TDEC made the charging stations possible with FPU contributing to the project as well.

When addressing the audience, FPU Chairman of the Board Russ Dixon commented, “I would like to thank TDEC and TVA for their partnership and vision in helping make the Fast Charge Network possible. I would also like to recognize the City of Fayetteville for their collaboration with FPU to secure this site and make this charging station a reality. I am proud of FPU for making this exciting addition to our city possible. Connecting Fayetteville to the Fast Charge Network is just one example of how the FPU team continues to keep our community at the forefront of innovation.”

“EVs are going to be around for a long time,” said Tennessee Speaker of the House Pro Tempore and Tennessee State Representative Pat Marsh. “I’m proud to see FPU, TDEC and TVA partner to do this in Fayetteville next to the square in such a wonderful location.”

Tennessee State Representative Clay Doggett remarked, “Owners of EVs plan their routes by where they can find places to charge. With this being on the map, it will be an exciting time for visitors that are coming into our communities. I guarantee that someone will enjoy a slaw burger for the first time because of this charging station. Congratulations to all involved who helped put this together.”

Seven States Power Corporation Director of Technology Alignment B.J. Bernard expressed his appreciation to those gathered, “Seven States is honored to be a part of this project with Fayetteville Public Utilities. We are excited about the TVA Fast Charge Network and congratulate FPU and local leaders who have helped support this project. This network is being deployed all over the Valley. There is a lot of work that goes into one of these projects . Thank you to the FPU team for your work here. This is a great looking site, and I commend you on that.”

According to TVA Community Relations Manager Chris Smith, “The Fast Charge Network will place public fast chargers like these at least every fifty miles across interstates and major highways in TVA’s 7 state area over the next 5 years. EVs will help move our local and regional economies forward in so many ways. This fast-charging site will serve local drivers and bring travelers into town to enjoy the amenities of Fayetteville while they refuel. EV chargers keep refueling dollars in our communities through local power companies like FPU. With projects like this one today, we are continuing in the spirit of innovation and our mission of service. Congratulations on this site.”

The station, capable of charging two vehicles at one time, is conveniently located in the public parking area near the square on College Street West. Designated EV-charging parking spaces denote the station and are clearly marked with signage.

“This new fast charging site does more than charge cars,” Dye commented. “It connects Fayetteville to the regional Fast Charge Network and plays an important role in preparing our region for the environmental and economic benefits of electric transportation. The public chargers will be utilized by those traveling through Fayetteville and will draw motorists to visit downtown shops and restaurants while their vehicles charge. It will create opportunities for local tourism as EV owners plan their roads trips to visit new destinations and enjoy towns they might not visit otherwise. These stations represent another way FPU works to serve our community.”

To learn more about the Fast Charge Network or locate EV charging stations on your travel route, visit https://energyright.com/ev/.

[State and local officials gather to cut the ribbon and officially open FPU’s EV charging stations. From left: Fayetteville Alderman Dorothy Small, FPU board member Daniel Eldridge, FPU Board Secretary and Treasurer Paul Richardson, FPU board member Deborah Woodward, FPU board member and Fayetteville Alderman Roger Martinez, TVA Community Relations Manager Chris Smith, Seven States Power Corporation Director of Technology Alignment B.J. Bernard, FPU CEO/General Manager Britt Dye, Tennessee State Representative Clay Doggett, Tennessee Speaker of the House Pro Tempore and Tennessee State Representative Pat Marsh and FPU Chairman of the Board Russ Dixon.]

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