If approved, the proposed rate increase would raise the average consumer’s bill by nearly $10 per month
Georgia Power on Friday filed a request with the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) to increase customer rates by approximately 7% in 2020. A press release from the company says the rate increase would “enable the company to continue making investments in Georgia’s energy future.”
In the filing, the company highlights nearly $18 billion in recent and future investments to strengthen the “reliability and resiliency” of the state’s electrical system and to comply with federal regulations. The company is also requesting to rebuild its storm restoration fund after more than 50 severe weather events have impacted its network in recent years, including Hurricanes Michael, Irma, and Matthew, and Ice Storm Pax.
The filing also details the costs of Georgia Power’s environmental compliance programs. Additionally, the company is seeking to extend and expand its current suite of rate plans and enhance its payment options, including continuing to offer the low-income senior citizen discount, adding a Pay-by-Day rate plan and eliminating certain fees.
As outlined in the filing, the typical residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt-hours per month would see an increase of $9.78 per month on their bill. A final decision by the PSC is expected in December.
