Jackson Jambalaya

Central Mississippi Public Service Commissioner Cecil Brown issued the following press release:

During today’s Public Service Commission’s work session, the Independent Monitors hired by the Commission to observe and report on the Kemper Power Plant project, gave updates on several areas they are monitoring. The monitors discussed issues with low cost estimates, construction productivity, project execution, and cope additions.

Following the session, the Commissioners directed the Commission Staff to begin posting online the executive summaries prepared monthly by the Independent Monitors. Additionally, the Staff will begin evaluating and lawfully unsealing confidential documents filed in the prior Kemper certificate case.

“We think it is important that the public see the process at work and see that their Commissioners are working for them. Better public access to information is one way to get that message across,” said Sam Britton, Southern District Commissioner.

“Transparency in government is always a positive thing. We want the public to be assured that we will continue to ask questions and make the tough decisions necessary to see this project through to completion and we will make that information available,” commented Cecil Brown, Central District Commissioner.

“The Kemper project is the largest utility expenditure in the history of Mississippi. Today’s move to post progress reports online is a positive step forward for the customers of Mississippi Power and will provide useful information to the public about the PSC’s work to protect the public’s interest,” said Chairman Brandon Presley.

The Independent Monitors will continue to track and document the Kemper project and make reports to the Commission. For more information, call 1-800-356-6428 or visit www.psc.state.ms.us.