SACE Supports Georgia Power

Guest Blog | January 19, 2009 | Press Releases

The Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) will hear testimony from Southern Alliance for Clean Energy and other intervening parties on Georgia Power’s application to convert Plant Mitchell in Albany, Ga. into a biomass facility.

The Southern Alliance for Clean Energy will testify in support of Georgia Power Company’s proposal and ask the PSC to approve their application to convert Plant Mitchell, a coal-fired power plant in Albany, Ga. to consume 100 percent biomass. This will be one of the largest biomass plants of its kind in the country.

SACE supports this important conversion proposal for the following reasons:

  • This project is better for the environment. Biomass-to-electricity plants emit less sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions than coal-fueled electricity. Also, when the trees harvested for energy are re-planted, the project captures carbon emissions and helps fight global warming pollution.
  • The project is cost-effective for ratepayers. The converted plant would have lower fuel and operating costs in comparison to continued use of coal. The plant will diversify Georgia Power’s energy mix by supporting greater renewable energy development, helping prevent potential rate increases.
  • This project will support economic development in the Georgia. Wood markets have been declining in recent years and it is estimated that this plant alone would create new jobs in forestry, logging, biomass delivery and support. In addition, every ton of coal we avoid importing is that much more money we keep in the state. Georgia spent $2.3 billion on coal in 2006.

WHEN:
Hearing begins at 11 a.m., Tuesday, January 20, 2009

WHERE:
Georgia Public Service Commission
244 Washington Street (1st floor hearing room)
Atlanta, Ga. 30303

WHO:
Dr. Stephen A. Smith, Executive Director, Southern Alliance for Clean Energy
Eric Kingsley, Innovative Natural Resource Solutions