Abstract :
When a government agency purchases materials and equipment, it is required by law to accept bids from all qualified sources, except in cases of emergency. If the products are of equal quality, the agency must then buy from the lowest bidder, whether he be domestic or foreign. It is obvious that the utility industry in general, and the Tennessee Valley Authority in particular, rely heavily on European and Japanese manufacturers for a large percentage of their equipment needs. Price and delivery schedules are important factors; and the quality of products purchased abroad has generally been equal to or better than the comparable domestic product.
