The Power Planner

Strengthening Reliability and Stability

Bryson Rogers didn’t set out to work in energy operations. But looking back, every step of his journey seems perfectly placed.

As manager of a TVA program that helps oversee power use amid high demand, he brings almost 17 years of experience to one of the most critical roles in TVA’s operational landscape.

Rogers launched into the world of finance fresh out of college but soon found he wanted something different. He went back to school for a degree in engineering and, in January 2009, found a job as a system engineer at TVA’s Cumberland Fossil Plant.

That experience still resonates in his work after all these years.

“You learn a ton when you’re on the front lines,” he said. “You know where the nuts and bolts are and how the megawatts are being produced.”

In 2010, Rogers transitioned into TVA’s enterprise planning group and moved to Chattanooga to be closer to his north Alabama roots. His team’s focus shifted to short-term generation planning and real-time operations support.

Since then, Rogers has immersed himself in generation planning, gaining a deep understanding of how TVA balances supply and demand across the grid. Even now, in his current program manager role, he continues to wear multiple hats.

In addition to being a program manager, he oversees the legacy short-term generation planning software and handles monthly energy accounting with TVA’s neighboring utilities.

He’ll soon take on a backup role in generation planning, but for now, he continues to balance these responsibilities with calm and clarity.

Adaptability, he said, is key.

“Systems don’t always function as expected, and you can’t panic. You just have to have a plan and stick with it. If anything comes up, you adapt and move on,” Rogers said.

That mindset is especially important as he leads a program that plays a vital part in maintaining grid stability during high-demand periods.

Through this program, TVA works closely with the Tennessee Valley Public Power Association and local power companies to implement temporary, strategic reductions in electricity usage when required to maintain reliability.

The program follows a structured six-step process, beginning with TVA’s own internal load reductions, such as adjusting thermostats and turning off non-essential lighting within facilities.

Next, TVA reaches out to the public for voluntary reductions, encouraging actions like delaying use of large appliances and adjusting thermostat settings. Depending on power demand, the program may encourage additional energy-saving actions.

“It's purely for reliability and stability of the grid," Rogers said.

The secret to managing these complex systems with confidence?

Teamwork.

“A great work environment goes a long way,” he said. “We’ve got a super great group to work in. Everybody gets along and has each other’s backs.”

Outside of work, Rogers enjoys spending time with his family and is an active member of his church. He's also a proud alumnus of Auburn University and the University of Alabama, though he’s quick to clarify his allegiance.

“Roll Tide, baby,” he said. “I catch all kinds of grief for going to Auburn, too, especially around football season.”

As winter approaches and energy demand rises, Rogers encourages his TVA teammates and the public to stay informed and proactive.

“Keep an eye on communications,” he said. “Our teams do a great job getting the word out. If TVA is asking for help ... have a personal plan in place and be ready to step in where you can.”