Georgia Power has filed a request with the state’s Public Service Commission for a rate increase that could result in an average $16 increase in customer bills.
The increase comes as the company has to pay higher fuel prices, which it is allowed to pass on to consumers.
WABE environmental reporter Emily Jones followed the hearings and joined All Things Considered to explain the process.
She says critics have urged the commission to rein in tariff increases, but the company has a legal right to recoup its spending.
A decision from the PSC is expected in the coming weeks and any changes would come into effect in June.
Christopher Alston contributed to this report.
