Widows Creek Fossil Plant - Environmental Matters - Air

We previously issued an audit report (2007-019F) that noted (among other things) significant duct leaks at two fossil plants. Management agreed with our recommendation to work to promote a culture of transparent reporting throughout TVA organizations. We have now closed a joint investigation with the EPA Criminal Investigations Division that found installation of a Selective Catalytic Reduction system led to deterioration in the flue gas ductwork at the Widows Creek Fossil Plant. The deterioration caused extensive leaks that became progressively worse. In spite of the extent of the leaks, it appeared TVA gave little, if any, consideration to reporting them to regulatory authorities. While TVA patched the leaks as they occurred and eventually replaced large sections of the ductwork, we recommended management consult with the TVA Ethics and Compliance Officer to incorporate ethics and compliance considerations into daily operations at the fossil plants.