Tullahoma Utilities Authority (TUA) received the Sue Kelly Community Service Award from the American Public Power Association (APPA), recognizing “good neighbor” activities that demonstrate the commitment of the utility and its employees to the community.
TUA prioritizes community engagement and hosts major community events, including an annual Public Energy Week celebration, National Clean Water Week celebration, and LightTube Customer Appreciation Day. TUA also runs and promotes a Round-Up community assistance program funded by voluntary customer contributions. Contributions are used to support local families in need and the organizations that serve them. This program returns over $60,000 to the community each year.
Additionally, TUA employees donate to United Way through a payroll partnership that has generated more than $70,000 for nonprofits since 2007. TUA also offers its employees the opportunity to donate blood at the Blood Assurance regional blood center through regular on-site donation drives.
Through its fiber division, LightTube, TUA offers high-speed gigabit internet access and a network of television channels, YouTube and Facebook that broadcast city government meetings, community events and local news.
TUA’s Home Uplift program is designed to support low-income customers whose residences are typically older and less energy efficient. The TUA is donating funds, which are matched by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), to help fund the cost of home energy efficiency upgrades for Tullahoma residents. TUA and TVA have also partnered to fund STEM learning projects in local schools. TUA employees frequently visit schools to discuss public service careers, focusing on building the future of public energy.
The Sue Kelly Community Service Award was presented at the APPA National Conference in Nashville.
Tullahoma Utilities Authority provides electricity, water, sewage, television, internet, and telephone services to the city of Tullahoma. Incorporated in 1948, the company today serves approximately 11,000 commercial and residential customers and maintains 250 miles of distribution lines.
