Argo Infrastructure Partners Secures $435 Million Financing for Smoky Mountain Hydroelectric Project

Argo Infrastructure Partners Secures $435 Million for Innovative Hydroelectric Financing

NEW YORK & KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – August 14, 2025 – In a groundbreaking move for the renewable energy sector, Argo Infrastructure Partners, LP, has successfully closed a $435 million senior secured notes financing for Smoky Mountain Holdings LLC, a joint venture with Brookfield that operates several hydroelectric facilities in the Smoky Mountains.

This financing marks a significant milestone as it is the first of its kind in the U.S. Private Placement market, featuring a unique blend of fixed and variable amortization. The funds will support the Cheoah, Calderwood, Chilhowee, and Santeetlah hydroelectric dams, which are poised to deliver over 14 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of carbon-free energy to the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) over the next decade.

The recent 10-year power purchase agreement with TVA is expected to prevent more than 11 million tons of CO2 emissions, underscoring the environmental impact of this initiative.

Brice Soucy, Argo Director at Smoky, expressed pride in this innovative financing structure, stating, “This reflects Smoky’s status as a best-in-class, flexible and dispatchable clean energy portfolio. As digitalization and artificial intelligence redefine energy demand, this transaction not only strengthens the nation’s energy grid but also fuels the next wave of innovation.”

Jason Zibarras, Founder and Managing Partner of Argo Infrastructure Partners, emphasized the importance of this financing in supporting clean energy initiatives in the Tennessee Valley. “This project demonstrates our commitment to innovation and economic growth, positioning the U.S. as a leader in the global AI ecosystem,” he said.

Argo Infrastructure Partners, founded by Zibarras, is dedicated to long-term infrastructure investments that provide essential services to communities. With over $6.5 billion in assets under management, Argo continues to focus on responsible and sustainable investing in utilities, renewable energy, and digital infrastructure.

As the world increasingly turns to renewable energy solutions, this financing not only represents a significant step forward for Smoky Mountain Holdings but also highlights the growing importance of sustainable practices in the energy sector.

For more information, visit Argo Infrastructure Partners.

Media Contact:
Ira Gorsky
Edelman Smithfield
argoinfrastructurepartners@edelmansmithfield.com

Keywords: Renewable Energy, Hydroelectric, Clean Energy, Infrastructure, Sustainability, Tennessee Valley Authority, Argo Infrastructure Partners.