Jeffrey Nelson Named 2007 Ike Zeringue TVA Engineer of the Year

February 8, 2007

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. -- TVA employee Jeffrey Nelson, who developed the original design for new substation equipment that saves TVA 40 to 50 percent in construction and installation costs, has been selected as the Ike Zeringue TVA Engineer of the Year.

Nelson, who is a principal electrical engineer for substation projects in TVA’s Power System Operations in Chattanooga, was recognized for his contributions to enhance and improve electrical design standards and equipment specifications for TVA substations.

“Jeffrey Nelson has the engineering expertise and dedication that helps maintain the reliability of TVA’s 17,000-mile transmission system,” said TVA President and CEO Tom Kilgore. “Nelson stands out among his peers in carrying out TVA’s rich legacy of innovation and achievement.”

Nelson developed the original design of the first 161-kilovolt fuseless capacitor banks installed on TVA’s system. Capacitor banks are used to maintain power system voltage at proper levels. Fuseless capacitor banks are more efficient, reliable and require less equipment and space than the externally fused type, resulting in the cost savings.

Nelson promoted the use of fuseless capacitor banks through consultation with electric power utilities in the United States and abroad.

The TVA Board recognized Nelson at a meeting in Memphis last month. He is one of 10 finalists for Federal Engineer of the Year, to be awarded by the National Society of Professional Engineers later this month.

Nelson has served as an adviser for research and development projects, including synchronous closing and condition monitoring on circuit breakers, system voltage upgrading and seismic evaluation of equipment. The innovative technological advancements are now in use industry wide.

Nelson is a resident of Hixson, Tenn., and has worked for TVA for 16 years. He is a native of Clanton, Ala. He is a registered engineer in Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky and Mississippi. Nelson has a bachelor of electrical engineering degree from Auburn University. He is a Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

TVA is the nation’s largest public power provider and is completely self financed. TVA provides power to large industries and 158 power distributors that serve approximately 8.7 million consumers in seven southeastern states. TVA also manages the Tennessee River and its tributaries to provide multiple benefits, including flood damage reduction, navigation, water quality and recreation.

Media Contact

Gil Francis, (865) 632-8031
TVA News Bureau, Knoxville, (865) 632-6000

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