Regulators Have Important Chance to Bolster Alabama’s Power Grid

There is little more important for power customers than ensuring that electricity is available through all conditions, including extreme winter weather. Events such as the 2014 Polar Vortex remind us of the need to adequately prepare for all circumstances that stress our power production capabilities.

That is why a hearing today by the Alabama Public Service is important for families and businesses. Regulators have a chance to approve additional power generation for the state’s largest power provider, Alabama Power, which is seeking to add around 2,400 megawatts of new capacity to its portfolio.

“Ensuring power reliability is job number one for electricity regulators,” states Energy Fairness Executive Director Paul Griffin. “By approving this request, the Alabama Public Service Commission can take a step in the right direction for all those who rely on Alabama Power for reliable service.”

The request by Alabama Power Company for a Certificate of Convenience and Necessity would add a number of new and existing power generation assets to the company’s toolbox. Those include building state-of-the-art natural gas powered generation at Plant Barry north of Mobile, adding new solar power generation in five Alabama counties statewide, and acquiring existing natural gas powered generation in Autauga County and Mobile.

“Approving this request would be a win for customers and the environment alike,” explains Griffin. “More low-cost natural gas will drive costs savings and reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and more solar power will add to the state’s ever-increasing suite of renewable energy sources. It is a winning move for everyone.”