In response to higher costs Alabama Power raises rates

From The Jefferson County Journal staff reports

BIRMINGHAM — Electric rates for Alabama Power customers have been raised this year to pay for closing ash ponds across the state, according to WVTM.

WVTM reported that the company’s coal-powered plants have made use of ponds for disposal purposes in the past.

A spokesman for the utility, Michael Sznajderman, stated that operations had to change because of $200 million in new costs that were mandated by the federal government.  Many of these new considerations had to do with water quality and coal ash handling.

WVTM reported that Sznajderman noted that rates increase by around 3 percent.  That number represents a $4.50 monthly increase for the normal residential customer.

According to WVTM Alabama Power boasts almost 1.5 million customers.  These customers include residential, business and industries.