Public Power Week: Celebrating Service, Community, and a Stronger Valley

Recognizing community partnerships that keep reliable, affordable energy flowing throughout the Tennessee Valley.

Every October, Public Power Week highlights the unique energy system that has served the Tennessee Valley for more than 90 years. Built by the people, for the people, the public power model has helped communities grow, supported families, protected natural resources, and delivered reliable, low‑cost electricity across the region.

Our History

Created in 1933 with a mission of public service, the Tennessee Valley Authority provides electricity to more than 10 million people in partnership with 153 local power companies. Unlike investor‑owned utilities driven by shareholder profit, the public power model keeps decision‑making local. Energy choices are shaped by community needs, and customers remain the top priority.

Affordable Electricity

This community‑focused model produces real, measurable benefits. Residential rates in the Valley region are lower than those paid by over 80% of customers of the top 100 U.S. utilities, and industrial rates are lower than those paid by 90% of customers of the top 100 utilities. These consistently low‑cost rates have played a critical role in growing the region’s economy. Revenue from electricity sales is reinvested directly into the Valley, supporting one of the most reliable and cost‑effective power systems in the nation. Low energy rates help attract businesses, stimulate growth, and create well‑paying jobs.

Being Good Stewards of the Environment

Public power also plays a critical role in caring for the environment. The Tennessee Valley’s river system, reservoirs, and public lands support recreation, tourism, and everyday life. River and land management activities drive nearly $12 billion in economic activity and support more than 130,500 jobs. These operations help prevent roughly $300 million in annual flood damage, supply water to more than 5 million people, and enable navigation of 50 million tons of goods on the Tennessee River in order to support commerce and industry across multiple states.

Public power is about far more than keeping the lights on. It’s about improving lives. Programs supporting energy efficiency help families and businesses save money. Investments in schools, local organizations, and community partnerships provide opportunities for education, development, and growth. Assistance following natural disasters helps communities rebuild, recover, and thrive.

For more than nine decades, the public power model has been a defining strength of the Tennessee Valley region. Public Power Week serves as a reminder of its lasting impact: putting people first, protecting natural resources, supporting a strong economy, and helping build a brighter future for everyone who calls the Tennessee Valley region home.

Learn more about Public Power here: Public Power for the Valley