Atlanta Gas Light (AGL) Monday began testimony before theGeorgia Public Service Commission (PSC), seeking approval for itsunbundling plan that would give more than 1.4 million customerssupplier choice. AGL’s proposal follows the guidelines of theNatural Gas Competition and Deregulation Act signed into law byGeorgia Governor Zell Miller last April.

During a transition, consumers would choose their supplier orcontinue to buy both gas and transmission service from AGL.Eventually, however, all customers will buy gas from othersuppliers. Ultimately, AGL will no longer sell gas, but it willretain responsibility for the delivery system.

The law requires the PSC to establish new rates for deliveryservice. AGL’s proposal includes a request to increase rates by$18.6 million, $2.27/month for the average residential customer.This is the first such requested increase by AGL, the LDC said.AGL’s proposal also contains opportunities for the company andconsumers to share gains from deregulation. Testimony before thePSC continues this week and resumes April 28-May 1. AGL willrespond to the testimony of others May 18-20. A final PSC decisionis expected by June 30.

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