Georgia Power, watchdogs agree on rate hike. (Georgia. Public Service Commission)

Georgia Power, watchdogs agree on rate hike

The latest rate increase filed by Georgia Power Co. with the Public Service Commission would seem a likely battleground for consumer groups and utility executives. Instead, consumer advocates are encouraging PSC commissioners to approve the rate hike.

The key to this unlikely partnership is the way in which Georgia Power expects to meet the additional 4,800 megawatts of new peaking capacity it says it will need by 2000. No longer is the utility relying solely on the construction of additional plants and combustion turbines. Instead, with the direct input of conservation and consumer advocacy groups, Georgia Power is proposing the implementation of demand side programs to curb electrical use and encourage conservation.

…