The 21st Century

In 2004, Congress approved legislation to expand the TVA Board to nine members and create the position of chief executive officer. The Board provides guidance and policy direction for TVA’s work in energy, the environment, and economic development.

In 2006, after extensive study and public input, the Board approved a TVA land policy that places renewed emphasis on TVA’s stewardship responsibilities. Also with considerable public input, the Board in 2007 adopted an updated TVA Strategic Plan that focuses on meeting the region’s growing power needs over the long-term.

In August 2007, during a time of unprecedented power demand and record-breaking drought, TVA met 13 of its highest-ever peak demands. Browns Ferry Unit 1, the nation’s first new nuclear generation of the 21st century, helped supply power to the region during this challenging time.

Anticipating further growth in power demand, the Board approved completing Watts Bar Unit 2 and seeking a license for a possible advanced nuclear unit at TVA’s Bellefonte site in north Alabama. The Board also directed TVA to embark upon new initiatives in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and reduced environmental impact. These efforts will help to slow the rate of growth in power demand and add more renewable and clean energy resources to the TVA system.

Already, TVA’s ongoing efforts to improve air quality had reduced its sulfur dioxide emissions by 82 percent, compared to peak levels some 20 years before, and had reduced nitrogen oxide emissions during summer ozone seasons by 81 percent compared to 1995 peak levels.

At the same time, TVA continued to strengthen the Valley’s economic base. In 2007, TVA helped attract or retain more than 45,000 jobs and leveraged some $5.6 billion in capital investment in the Valley region’s thriving economy.