Environmental Groups Take TVA to Court Over Cumberland Coal Plant Emissions

A legal challenge has been filed against the Tennessee Valley Authority, accusing the federal utility of neglecting its obligations under the Clean Air Act at its Cumberland coal-fired facility. The Southern Environmental Law Center brought the case forward, acting for two advocacy organizations — Appalachian Voices and the Sierra Club.

The dispute centers on what the plaintiffs describe as TVA’s failure to carry out federally mandated measures meant to shield surrounding Middle Tennessee communities from pollution linked to the plant’s operations. According to the groups, those required protections have not been delivered.

The lawsuit, lodged this week in Cumberland City, Tennessee, underscores ongoing tensions between environmental advocates and the federally owned power provider over the pace of its transition away from coal. The outcome could influence how the utility manages emissions at one of its largest remaining coal assets.