This piece is part of a series of articles examining where 2026 Southeastern candidates for state and federal offices stand on key energy and climate issues, like data centers and energy costs.
Note: The Southern Alliance for Clean Energy does not support or oppose candidates or political parties. Links to reports, candidate websites, and outside sources are provided as citizen education tools.
In this article, we examine the policies and positions of Chaz Molder, the Democratic candidate running to represent Tennessee’s Congressional District 5. Also in this series, we profile Republican candidate Charlie Hatcher. Election Day is November 3.
Chaz Molder currently serves as Mayor of Columbia, Tennessee, the town he was born and raised in. Molder graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Tennessee. He later went on to earn his J.D. at the University of Memphis. Prior to becoming mayor of Columbia, Molder ran his own law firm.
Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency
Chaz Molder believes that federal government support for renewable energy needs to be consistent. In an interview with the Tennessee Lookout, he said, “This is an opportunity where government can be put to work to do good by incentivizing the private sector to be innovative with respect to renewable energy opportunities instead of creating inconsistencies and causing confusion.” Molder also acknowledged that renewable energy can lower costs and make the grid more reliable.
Climate Change
We were unable to confirm Chaz Molder’s position on climate change in published media, public records, or on his campaign website.
Electric Transportation
At a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the first fast-charging stations in Maury County, Molder said the following in his speech: “These charging stations represent a crucial step in Columbia’s efforts to support the growth of electric vehicles and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future for our city and state. By working alongside partners like CPWS, TVA, and TDEC, we are able to position Columbia at the forefront of green energy initiatives.”
Energy Justice
We were unable to confirm Chaz Molder’s position on energy justice in published media, public records, or on his campaign website.
Energy Affordability
Affordability is a focus of Molder’s campaign. On his campaign website, Molder shares, “I am dedicated to championing affordability for Tennessee families, farmers, and seniors. This means advocating for policies that lower everyday expenses.”
High-Risk Energy: Nuclear, Coal, Methane Gas
Chaz Molder considers nuclear energy to be one of many low-carbon, reliable resources that Tennessee needs to meet growing electricity demand.
Data Centers
Molder announced his support for a temporary data center moratorium in Memphis and Columbia, Tennessee, on Instagram. He said, “The rapid expansion of AI data centers is one of the most consequential issues facing Tennessee communities today. Before another data center is approved, Memphians deserve answers about what it would mean for their light bills, the air they breathe, and the neighborhoods they call home. As a mayor, I know that large economic development projects often come with big promises and pressure to move quickly. In the face of such decisions, we must take the time to consider the consequences of the projects, understand the impact on our infrastructure, green spaces and workforce, and make sure that the people who will live with the decision have a real say. That is why I support this moratorium and why, in Congress, I will always stand up for Tennessee communities.”
Molder also shared his support on X for the Tennessee Valley Authority’s decision to raise rates on data centers to ensure the companies pay for the energy infrastructure to power them instead of TVA customers.
Voting Information
Election Day is November 3. Here are important dates and deadlines to consider:
- Oct. 5, 2026: Voter registration deadline
- Oct. 14, 2026: In-person early voting period begins
- Oct. 24, 2026: Absentee ballot request deadline
- Oct. 29, 2026: In-person early voting period ends
- Nov. 3, 2026: General Election Day
- Nov. 3, 2026: Absentee ballot return deadline
- Nov. 3, 2026: Absentee ballot return deadline for military and overseas citizen voters
For more information about being a Tennessee voter, including registering, finding your polling place, and requesting an absentee ballot, visit proudvoter.org.
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