Federal Reports

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

This report summarizes the oversight work performed by EAC OIG during the 6-month period ended September 30, 2009.