The Greeneville Energy Authority met yesterday and received an update on the construction of new Fiberoptic Broadband Network and Solar Power Usage.
Fiber-optic broadband can reach speeds of up to 940 Megabits per Second. This means that sending data could be as quick as about 70% of the speed of light.
Greeneville Energy Authority President Chuck Bowlin Told Radio Greeneville that the network buildout is about 25% complete at this time.
According to the GEA, the decision to use this network came after Greeneville residents and businesses showed an interest.
Crews are focusing on Northern Greeneville at this time, with construction estimated to be 25% complete. Bowlin said that the power should be usable by October of this year. Southern Greeneville construction is estimated to be complete this year as well, with usable power as early as early 2024.
The construction in Greeneville has allowed Fiber-Optic Broadband Grants in Greene County.
Bowlin said that a Need-Based Grant has already been received for Western Greene County, with approximately 1,000 underserved customers in the area.
Additionally, four Solar Sites are planned in the area. Only two sites are reportedly in operation while the third is currently being constructed. Each solar site has thousands of solar panels.
According to the GEA, formerly Greeneville Light and Power, the solar sites will help limit rate increases for customers.
Bowlin said that GEA is 66% ahead of its savings projections even with just two of the four solar sites operating.
