For several decades prior to 1970, the electric power industry in general, and the Mississippi Power and Light Company (MP&L) in particular, experienced a period of increasing demand and decreasing rates. During this time, based on optimistic forecasts of future demand, Middle South Utilities planned the construction of massive amounts of new generating capacity, including a nuclear plant at Grand Gulf in Claiborne County, Mississippi, and a coal-fueled plant in Independence County, Arkansas. This report traced the events leading to the decision to construct Grand Gulf and summarized the Grand Gulf hearing before the Mississippi Public Service Commission. The report also reviewed events in Arkansas and Mississippi which led to the AP&L decision to sell Independence and summarizes the three hearings before the Mississippi Public Service Commission (MPSC). The report examined the role of the MPSC staff in both cases and concluded with a discussion of the effect of these decisions on rates.
For a paper copy of this report, contact PEER by telephone at 601-359-1226 or by e-mail at reports@peer.ms.gov.