PSC Adversary Staff opposes Atlanta Gas Light rate increase

<p>The Georgia Public Service Commission's Adversary Staff argues that the commission should reject rate increases requested by Atlanta Gas Light Co.</p><p>Last month Atlanta Gas Light asked the PSC for increases of $25.6 million in base rates, $7.5 million in new economic development surcharge rate and $9.5 million in its Pipeline Replacement Program surcharge rate. The pipeline request included another $11.1 million in October 2006 and another $8.9 million in October 2007.</p><p>The Adversary Staff is separate from the five elected commissioners. It puts on its own case, offers an independent evaluation of the utility's request, participates in the rate case as a party and uses its attorneys to cross-examine utility witnesses.</p><p>The Adversary Staff said the rate increases over the next three years would collect an estimated $146.9 million. The staff contends no rate increases are necessary and recommends that the commission adopt a comprehensive rate plan for Atlanta Gas Light.</p><p>The staff wants to freeze the company's rates for three years, saying the company is currently over-earning $55 million per year from its base rates.</p><p>The commission will hear the testimony of the Adversary Staff and other intervenors March 14-17, and rebuttal by Atlanta Gas Light will be presented April 11-12. The commission will decide the matter on April 28.</p>