How to Read Creating Sustainable Prosperity in the United States: The Need for Innovation and Leadership RTF
The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), the nation’s largest public power provider, is a self-financing, federal electric utility with annual revenues of about $11 billion. TVA has financed large capital investments mostly by issuing debt and is subject to a $30 billion debt ceiling imposed by the TVA Act. TVA is governed by a 9-member Board. Within an affirmation requirement for the TVA Board, the TVA Act recognizes that TVA’s broad missions and objectives include being a national leader in technological innovation, low-cost power, and environmental stewardship. GAO was asked to examine (1) how TVA plans to meet future demand for electricity and how TVA’s resource planning and forecasts compare to those from other sources, (2) TVA’s efforts to use energy efficiency to meet demand for electricity, and (3) TVA’s financial condition and how it affects TVA’s ability to meet its operational and financial goals. GAO analyzed data from TVA and third parties, reviewed agency documents, and interviewed federal and state officials and industry stakeholders.
