COLUMBUS, Ohio, Nov. 3, 2003 -- Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) has leased an Auto-Probe Q2000 system from United Sciences Testing, Inc. (USTI) to perform automated relative accuracy test audits (RATA). TVA's internal testing crews will use the Auto-Probe Q2000 to increase the accuracy and speed of the flow RATA tests performed on its internal fossil fleet.

Auto-Probe Q2000 is the only automated RATA system currently approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The computer-based, automated system increases accuracy and repeatability by dramatically reducing the scatter and bias commonly found in flow RATA data generated with conventional manual testing equipment, according to Mike Brown, general manager of USTI.

Increasing flow RATA test precision and accuracy through USTI's automated system helps utilities lower the cost of compliance with air emissions regulations, Brown said. More accurate emissions data also provide utilities with better information to plan for future capital investment decisions related to emissions controls. The speed of the automated system also saves O&M expenses by reducing the RATA test duration for non-normal loads.

USTI is a subsidiary of American Electric Power Co., Inc. (NYSE: AEP), the nation's largest generator of electricity. The AEP power plant fleet includes more than 25,000 megawatts of coal-fired generation, and the utility uses the Auto-Probe Q2000 exclusively for flow RATA testing.

USTI is headquartered at 5475 William Flynn Highway, Gibsonia, Pa. 15044. The Gibsonia phone number is 724-449-9700. Questions regarding equipment leases and/or direct testing services may also be directed to 614-716-6875. Additional information can be on the website www.ustirata.com.