Kemper, Now Slated to Start in Late June, Will Need Costly Post In-Service Improvement Projects
Mississippi Power’s Kemper County integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) project is now expected to be in service by the end of June, but the company expects it will need post in-service improvements. It also said timing of when it will file a case to address the recovery of costs not currently reflected in rates is uncertain.
The Southern Co. subsidiary said on June 5 that it filed a rate plan with the Mississippi Public Service Commission (MPSC) that would allow current rates for recovery of portions of the Kemper project’s existing combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) plant to remain in place. If approved, that filing will not increase customer bills, it said.
It added, however, that discussions with the MPSC continue on the status of the project and the nature and timing of a rate filing to address recovery of the remainder of the Kemper project costs, which includes its gasification component.
Mississippi Power wants a timely resolution of such a filing, which will likely require a settlement between the company and the Mississippi Public Utilities staff as well as other parties.…