Innovation Champion and SPARK Awardees Announced at Seven States 2024 Annual Meeting
Seven States is proud to recognize valuable contributions to innovation through honoring essential leaders working to keep up with evolving consumer demand. Two important leaders were recognized at this year’s Annual Meeting. These leaders’ dedication, vision, and commitment have made a lasting impact on the Valley.
Innovation Champion Award
Every year, the Innovation Champion Award is presented to an organization that exemplifies the spirit of innovation in their operations.
This year we presented this award to the Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation (TDEC) for their instrumental work in bringing innovation to so many of our LPCs including their ongoing work with the EV Fast Charge Network. These 66 Valley-wide EV charger installations span from Fort Payne, AL to Warren, KY, and Tombigbee, MS, to Bean Station, TN, and Blue Ridge, GA. Commissioner David Salyers accepted the award on behalf of his team.
Commissioner Salyers was appointed by Governor Bill Lee in January 2019. As Commissioner, Salyers oversees the state’s efforts to protect and enhance Tennessee’s natural resources, including air, water, and land, while balancing economic growth and environmental stewardship. Salyers is known for his collaborative approach to environmental policy, working with local communities, industry leaders, and government agencies to promote sustainability and resilience across the state.
The Seven States 2024 Annual Meeting was hosted at one of 59 State Parks under Commissioner Salyers’ oversight. We were excited to partner with Montgomery Bell State Park in the design, development, and deployment of a battery storage unit and solar charging stations at each of the six trail heads inside the park.
SPARK Award
This year marks the fourth presentation of the Seven States Spark Award, which went to Darrell Gillespie, General Manager of Dickson Electric System. We were proud to partner with Dickson Electric to design, develop, and deploy a battery storage solution that will provide peak shaving solutions to the utility. We are grateful for Gillespie’s leadership across the Valley and his invaluable service to Seven States as both a partner and Board Member.
In his role, Gillespie leads the utility’s operations, overseeing the provision of reliable electric service to the local community. With a strong focus on customer service, infrastructure modernization, and energy efficiency, he ensures that the system meets the growing demands of both residential and commercial customers.
Under Gillespie’s leadership, Dickson Electric System has continued to prioritize grid reliability, sustainability initiatives, and community engagement, contributing to the region’s development and energy resilience.
Congratulations to Commissioner David Salyers and TDEC as well as Darrell Gillespie and Dickson Electric System for earning these outstanding awards!
