The Rise and Fall of the Tennessee Valley Authority: A Tale of Progress and Pollution

The Lifeline of the South

In the 1930s, the Tennessee Valley was a region steeped in poverty, with limited access to electricity. Enter the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), established by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt as part of his New Deal program. TVA's mission was to harness the power of the Tennessee River and lift the region out of its economic struggles.

Over the next few decades, TVA embarked on an ambitious project that transformed the South. Dams were constructed, controlling river flooding and generating hydroelectric power. Electricity became widespread, improving living standards and driving economic growth. TVA became the single largest producer of electric power in the United States.

Wartime Shifts and Coal's Rise

With the outbreak of World War II, TVA's priorities shifted towards supporting the war effort. Coal-fired power plants were added to ensure a reliable supply of electricity for weapons production and atomic research. Post-war demand for electricity remained high, and TVA continued to rely heavily on coal.

The Shift to Profits

In the 1950s, the Eisenhower administration distanced itself from TVA, questioning its role in government. Congress cut funding, forcing TVA to operate more like a private corporation. This shift led to a focus on profit over social welfare, and many of TVA's social services were discontinued.

The Nuclear Misadventure

In the 1960s, TVA turned to nuclear power as a cleaner alternative to coal. However, their nuclear ventures were plagued with delays, cost overruns, and accidents. Of the seven nuclear plants planned, only three were completed. TVA accrued billions in debt, further tarnishing its reputation.

The Coal Legacy

Dependence on coal continued to weigh down TVA. The 2008 Kingston Coal Ash Spill, in which a billion gallons of toxic sludge devastated Tennessee, became a tragic symbol of this legacy. The workers tasked with the cleanup suffered numerous health issues, highlighting the dangers of TVA's coal-fired operations.

Valley So Low: A New Light on an Old Tragedy

In his book "Valley So Low: One Lawyer's Fight for Justice in the Wake of America's Great Coal Catastrophe," Jared Sullivan delves into the history and consequences of TVA's coal-centric approach. He exposes the failures and environmental impact that have haunted the region for decades.