Since 1933, the Boilermakers have collaborated with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) to develop and maintain the infrastructure supplying power to the South. Originally a New Deal hydroelectric project, TVA has expanded over 90 years to include coal, natural gas, nuclear energy, and plans for a pioneering nuclear fusion facility. TVA’s diverse assets deliver power to millions in seven states, supporting both regional and national grids.
There have been several unsuccessful attempts to privatize TVA since the Obama administration. Currently, rumors suggest that the Trump administration is considering selling off TVA’s generating assets and infrastructure. Such privatization could threaten millions of Boilermaker work hours and potentially raise utility bills by an estimated $50 monthly for families in TVA regions.
The International Brotherhood of Boilermakers (IBB) has issued a statement opposing any moves toward privatization. The organization encourages its members to contact their U.S. Senators using an action page link provided by IBB.
Kansas City, Mo. (July 23, 2025) — “We urge the Senate to slow down any attempt to privatize the Tennessee Valley Authority, as any such effort would have devastating effects across the South and our nation,” stated Timothy Simmons, International President of IBB. “Through the hard work of thousands of Boilermakers, TVA has been efficiently and effectively powering the South for over 90 years.”
Simmons emphasized that disrupting TVA’s operations could hinder efforts to meet increasing power demands influenced by evolving AI technology needs. He added that TVA currently provides affordable power while stabilizing the nation’s grid: “This is a classic case of ‘if it’s not broken, don’t fix it.'”
All Boilermakers are encouraged to reach out to their U.S. Senators using an action link provided.
