Tennessee Valley Authority

The preparation of financial statements requires TVA to estimate the effects of various matters that are inherently uncertain as of the date of the financial statements. Although the financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S., TVA is required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities, and the amounts of revenues and expenses reported during the reporting period. Each of these estimates varies in regard to the level of judgment involved and its potential impact on TVA's financial results. Estimates are deemed critical either when a different estimate could have reasonably been used, or where changes in the estimate are reasonably likely to occur from period to period, and such use or change would materially impact TVA's financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows. TVA's critical accounting estimates and policies are discussed in Part II, Item 7, Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations —Critical Accounting Estimates and Note 1 —Summary of Significant Accounting Policies of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in the Annual Report. See also Note 11 —Asset Retirement Obligations for additional obligations and current period revisions to ARO estimates.