Federal Reports

The OIG performed a review of Bolivar Energy Authority (Bolivar), a distributor for TVA power based in Bolivar, Tennessee. Our review of Bolivar found issues involving customer classification and metering that could impact (1) the proper reporting of electric sales, and (2) nondiscrimination in providing electricity to members of the same rate class. We were unable to estimate the monetary effect of all the classification and metering issues because in some instances information was not available; however, for those where information was available, the monetary effect on Bolivar and TVA would not be material. In addition, we found Bolivar had more than enough cash on hand to cover planned capital projects and provide a cash reserve of about 12 percent. While TVA has established guidelines to determine if a distributor has adequate cash reserves (cash ratio of 5 percent to 8 percent), TVA has not established guidelines to determine if a distributor's cash reserves are excessive.We also found improvements were needed to (1) comply with contract provisions regarding the co-mingling of funds; allocation of costs between departments; and customer contracts, and (2) improve Bolivar's internal controls related to the accuracy of contract demand data entered into the system, monitoring of manual data changes, monitoring of negative usage (kWh) amounts in billing data, and monitoring repetitive instances of zero usage. Finally, TVA has not: (1) performed a joint cost study in over 20 years even though the TVA Accountant's Reference Manual calls for one to be performed every three to four years or when major changes occur that affect joint operations; (2) adequately defined the process for granting the Small Manufacturing Credit to ensure proper documentation, including evidence of approval, is submitted and maintained; (3) provided adequate guidance on when a demand meter is required; and (4) defined criteria for evaluating when a distributor's cash balance is excessive.We recommended the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) work with Bolivar to: (1) remediate classification and metering issues and institute controls to prevent the issues from recurring; (2) assure compliance with contract provisions related to proper allocation of joint costs and customer contracts; and (3) assure internal controls are strengthened. In addition, the CFO should establish a process to document approval of distributor customer's credit applications. TVA is in the process of addressing findings from previous reviews that were also found at Bolivar related to: (1) contracts for customers whose demand exceeds 50 kW; (2) guidance for distributors on cash reserves; (3) performing joint cost studies; and (4) providing guidance on when a demand meter is required. TVA does not plan to take action regarding the co-mingling of electric and nonelectric funds, another issue we found at Bolivar and in previous audits; therefore, we suggested the power contract be modified to address the co-mingling funds language in existing contracts.TVA and Bolivar management are taking or have taken action to address certain recommendations. For the remaining recommendations, Bolivar does not plan to take additional actions.

Change is coming to TVA...and much of it is internally driven. Undoubtedly, the coal ash spill at the Kingston plant on December 22, 2008, set some of those changes in motion, but the TVA Board and TVA management have reacted with a commitment to make the changes necessary to make TVA better. Yes, Kingston was an environmental tragedy, but ultimately the TVA that is emerging is likely to be better able to serve the needs of Valley residents. As we have pointed out in our reports on Kingston, this was a disaster that did not need to occur. That is, however, true of most failures whether personal or, as in the case of TVA, institutional. And as with most failures, there are new opportunities for growth and TVA is seizing those opportunities.The Office of Inspector General at TVA is more than a proverbial "watchdog." In many ways we chronicle the history of the institution. Our inspections, audits, and investigations over the years weave TVA's story that is at times inspiring and at times distressing. Our two inspections that assessed TVA's reaction to the Kingston coal ash spill tell a tale that is mostly distressing. A noble institution with a proud heritage forgot its roots. Its reputation has been sullied both by the event and its failures in how it reacted to it.What is now happening within TVA, however, is inspiring. Instead of taking defensive half-steps, TVA management has given itself to righting the wrong. What we are seeing is not for "show" but a true commitment to change. The culture which in part led to the Kingston ash spill is being thoroughly dissected and analyzed by experts brought in with a charge by TVA management to find out what needs to be "fixed." Just as importantly, TVA is aggressively sifting through its institutional risks with a focus that inspires confidence.This inspiring story is not a story easily told by TVA. Its damaged image makes any positive story told by TVA suspect. Fortunately, the TVA Board and TVA management appear to be committed to doing the right thing whether or not they get credit for it. The fact is that TVA is on the move...and in the right direction. We report on some of that in the "Special Feature" section of this semiannual report.

EAC OIG conducted an evaluation of EAC's purchase of shirts and zip-hooded sweatshirts as an award to its employees using appropriated funds. The objectives of the evaluation were to determine whether (1) the purchase of shirts complied with federal requirements and other guidance, and (2) the use of appropriated funds was permissible.

The 2010-2015 strategic plan outlines the vision and priorities that guide EAC OIG as it carries out its mission.

This Semiannual Report to Congress summarizes the activities of our office for the 6-month period