Huntsville’s Joe Ritch Removed from TVA Board Following Leadership Changes
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Joe Ritch, a Huntsville attorney and Chairman of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) board, has been removed from his position by President Donald Trump, effective April 1, 2025. This decision follows the retirement of former TVA CEO Jeff Lyash in 2024, who was notable for being the highest-paid federal employee, earning more than the President of the United States. For Huntsville’s business community, these shifts at TVA—the region’s primary power provider—could influence energy policies critical to the local economy.
Ritch, appointed to the TVA board by President Barack Obama in 2012 and re-nominated by President Joe Biden in 2022, concluded his tenure after more than a decade of service. A TVA spokesperson stated, “He has transitioned off the board,” noting that the board now has four members, below the quorum required for certain decisions. This follows the earlier departure of board member Michelle Moore on March 27, 2025, also at Trump’s direction. The changes come as TVA navigates a transitional period, with implications for Huntsville’s business and economic landscape.
Jeff Lyash’s 2024 Retirement
Jeff Lyash, who served as TVA President and CEO from 2019 until his retirement announcement in January 2024, stepped down no later than September 30, 2024. During his tenure, Lyash oversaw initiatives like small modular nuclear reactors and plans to phase out coal plants by 2035—efforts that supported affordable energy for Huntsville’s industries. His compensation, however, drew attention: in 2024, Lyash earned $10.5 million, surpassing the U.S. President’s $400,000 salary. This made him the highest-paid federal employee, with his pay funded by TVA ratepayers rather than taxpayer dollars, as is standard for the utility’s executive compensation.
Lyash’s exit led to the appointment of Don Moul, TVA’s Chief Operating Officer, as CEO on March 31, 2025. Moul has expressed a commitment to maintaining TVA’s focus on reliable power generation.
Impact on Huntsville’s Economy
Huntsville, a hub for aerospace, defense, and technology, relies on TVA for low-cost electricity that drives economic growth. With Ritch no longer on the board, the utility’s ability to make major decisions is temporarily limited. Local businesses, including those tied to Redstone Arsenal, may see delays in energy projects or shifts in priorities as TVA adjusts to its new leadership structure.
William J. Renick now serves as interim board chair, guiding TVA through this period. For Huntsville’s economic stakeholders, the focus remains on how these changes will affect energy costs and infrastructure investments in the Tennessee Valley region.
Next Steps
As TVA adapts to its evolving leadership, Huntsville businesses and residents alike will be watching closely. The utility plays a vital role in powering North Alabama’s economy, and updates to its board and strategic direction will be key to the region’s future. Further developments are expected as TVA addresses its governance and operational plans.
