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BVU Wins Federal Lawsuit

& Named Cheapest Residential Power Provider in VA
Posted on: June 23, 2023 - 4:56pm
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Washington County, VA; June 23, 2023 – BVU Authority is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of the federal litigation case (Holbrook, David v. TN Valley Authority, et al.). The United States Supreme Court denied Holbrook's Petition for a Writ of Certiorari on Monday, June 12, 2023, effectively concluding the case. David Holbrook had alleged that the TVA Act mandates that industrial and commercial ratepayers subsidize residential electric customers, a claim which has now been dismissed. Holbrook's case was previously dismissed in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia, with the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals later affirming the dismissal in a published opinion.

This favorable outcome coincides with a significant achievement for BVU Authority in Virginia's residential electric rates. According to a comprehensive comparison study conducted by the Municipal Electric Power Association of Virginia in late 2022, BVU Authority has been recognized as the lowest-cost residential electric provider in the state. With a current residential rate averaging 11.6 cents per kilowatt hour, BVU Authority offers rates approximately 4.2 cents per kilowatt hour below the national average as reported by the U.S. Energy Information Administration in March 2023. On average, customers pay 36.6 percent less than the national average. BVU Authority also boasts some of the lowest industrial rates in the Southeastern United States.

Don Bowman, President and CEO of BVU Authority, expressed pride in the achievement, stating, "We are proud of our team's commitment to providing affordable and reliable utilities. This recognition reflects our unwavering dedication and the hard work of our employees."

BVU Authority's commitment to affordability is further evidenced by the successful implementation of nine rate reductions since October 2017, resulting in cumulative savings of approximately $25,351,218 for customers.

In addition to affordability, BVU Authority has consistently demonstrated top-tier reliability. The company's dedication to delivering uninterrupted power supply and exceptional service reliability has earned it the prestigious Diamond Level Designation for Reliable Public Power Provider (RP3) from the American Public Power Association (APPA). This esteemed recognition underscores BVU Authority's dedication to operational excellence and adherence to the highest industry standards.

Moving forward, BVU Authority remains committed to its strategic vision of delivering affordable, reliable, and top-quality utility services. The company will continue to invest in new technologies, explore innovative solutions, and seek partnerships and collaborations to exceed expectations and provide exceptional service to the communities it serves.

BVU Authority was successfully represented by Cameron S. Bell of PennStuart’s Abingdon, Virginia office. Holbrook was represented by Martin Bienstock of Washington, DC.

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