How to Advocate for Ratepayer Protection from Excessive Fuel Costs at the Georgia Public Service Commission

Introduction

After two days of testimony from experts and advocates during recent hearings, it has become clear that the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) must find new ways to shield ratepayers from excessive fuel costs incurred by Georgia Power. Three clean energy organizations urged the Commission to reform the way Georgia Power charges customers, highlighting a critical opportunity for public participation. This guide will walk you through the steps to effectively advocate for fair fuel cost practices, ensuring your voice is heard in the regulatory process. Whether you are a concerned resident, a community organizer, or an environmental advocate, these steps will help you navigate the PSC's procedures and push for meaningful change.

What You Need

• Research materials: Access to Georgia Power's fuel cost filings, PSC docket numbers, and relevant rate cases.
• Writing tools: Computer or paper for drafting testimony, comments, or letters.
• Contact information: PSC commissioner emails, hearing schedules, and public comment submission portals.
• Coalition partners: List of local clean energy groups (e.g., Sierra Club, Georgia Conservation Voters) for support and collaboration.
• Time commitment: Several hours to prepare and attend hearings or submit comments.

Step 1: Understand the Fuel Cost Recovery Mechanism

Georgia Power uses a fuel cost recovery mechanism that allows it to pass fuel expenses directly to ratepayers. To advocate effectively, you must first grasp how this system works. Review the PSC's rules on fuel cost adjustments (typically filed in annual rate cases or fuel cost recovery dockets). Key concepts include the fuel adjustment clause, base rates, and the difference between actual and projected fuel costs. Look for recent PSC decisions that either approved or denied cost pass-throughs. This foundational knowledge will empower you to identify when costs are excessive and formulate strong arguments.

Step 2: Gather Evidence of Excessive Costs

Collect data that demonstrates Georgia Power’s fuel costs exceed reasonable benchmarks. Sources include:

• PSC filings: Official documents from Georgia Power showing fuel expense forecasts and actuals.
• Expert reports: Testimonies from clean energy organizations or independent analysts (like those presented at the recent hearing).
• Comparative analysis: Fuel costs of neighboring utilities (e.g., Georgia EMC, MEAG) or national averages.
• Public records: Any reports on coal, natural gas, or nuclear fuel procurement that indicate overcharging.

Organize your evidence into clear categories—fuel procurement, hedging practices, and operational inefficiencies—to strengthen your case.

Step 3: Prepare Your Testimony or Written Comments

Draft a compelling statement that highlights the need for reform. Structure your testimony as follows:

1. Introduction: State your name and affiliation (e.g., resident, community group representative).
2. Issue summary: Explain that excessive fuel costs harm ratepayers and that the PSC must act.
3. Evidence: Present your gathered data, referencing specific dockets or filings.
4. Recommendations: Propose concrete reforms—such as capping fuel cost pass-throughs, requiring transparency in procurement, or mandating independent audits.
5. Conclusion: Urge the commission to vote in favor of ratepayer protection.

Keep your comments concise (500–1000 words) and include citations where possible. For oral testimony, practice delivering your key points in under 3 minutes.

Step 4: Attend PSC Hearings or Submit Comments

The PSC holds public hearings where citizens can speak directly to commissioners. Check the PSC website for upcoming docket schedules. If you cannot attend in person, submit written comments via the public comment portal. Follow these tips:

• Be punctual: Arrive early to sign up for speaking slots; written comments are often due days before the hearing.
• Be respectful: Address commissioners by their titles and maintain a professional tone.
• Be persistent: Attend multiple hearings to build momentum and show sustained interest.

After the hearing, follow up with a thank-you note to commissioners and request written responses to your concerns.

Step 5: Build Coalitions with Clean Energy Groups

Amplify your impact by joining forces with organizations that share your goal. In the recent hearing, three clean energy groups (e.g., Georgia Interfaith Power & Light, Southern Energy Network, and GreenLaw) presented unified testimony. Reach out to these groups for:

• Shared resources: Model testimony, data dashboards, and legal expertise.
• Coordinated action: Joint press releases, social media campaigns, and letter-writing drives.
• Media outreach: Pitch stories to local news outlets highlighting the need for PSC reform.

Coalitions often carry more weight than individuals, as they represent broader community interests.

Step 6: Follow Up and Monitor Outcomes

After the hearing, track the PSC's decision-making. Subscribe to docket notifications online or attend subsequent commission meetings. If the PSC rules against ratepayers, consider:

• Filing a motion for reconsideration: Highlight errors in the decision.
• Appealing to the courts: Challenge the decision if it violates state law.
• Continuing advocacy: Push for legislative changes to improve PSC accountability.

Maintain a log of your advocacy activities for future reference.

Tips for Success

• Start early: Begin gathering information months before a scheduled hearing.
• Stay organized: Keep a folder (digital or physical) with all relevant documents and correspondence.
• Be patient: Regulatory change often takes months or years; consistent pressure yields results.
• Engage your community: Host informational sessions to educate neighbors about fuel cost issues.
• Use social media: Tag @GA_PSC on Twitter and use hashtags like #RatepayerProtection to build public awareness.
• Seek legal advice: If you have complex arguments, consult with an energy attorney or nonprofit legal clinic.

By following these steps, you can help ensure the Georgia Public Service Commission prioritizes ratepayer interests over utility profits. The recent testimony from clean energy groups has set a precedent—now it's time for citizens to carry the torch forward.