‼️UPDATE‼️

The Alabama Public Service Commission has failed in its duty to protect the public by not holding formal hearings regarding Alabama Power's proposed rate increases. Not only do they not hold these formal hearings but refuse to do so. They refused a motion by Energy Alabama, a clean energy advocacy group, to intervene in the docket that determines how much Alabama power charges it’s customers for fuel costs. Despite the significant financial strain these hikes impose on the people of Alabama, the Commission has allowed Alabama Power to raise rates without adequate scrutiny or public input. They have avoided hearings which are technically required for the past 2 decades. This is a clear dereliction of responsibility, as the Commission has not ensured transparency or accountability in a matter that directly impacts the livelihoods of Alabama residents.

At the same time, Alabama Power has posted a record $4.4 billion in earnings for 2024, yet continues to push for rate increases that further burden the public. While the company enjoys immense profits, ordinary citizens are struggling to afford rising utility costs. The Commission's failure to conduct formal hearings and examine the proposed rate hikes is enabling this corporate greed at the expense of the people who are suffering.

The Public Service Commission must step up and fulfill its duty to the public by holding formal hearings on these rate increases. It is essential that the Commission prioritize the interests of Alabama residents over corporate profits. Without proper oversight, the trust of the public in these institutions will continue to erode, and the people of Alabama will bear the consequences.

I urge you as Alabamians, please share this petition in hopes that we will get the voice we deserve! These increases affect us directly, and we have a right to be aware of these decisions before they’re imposed upon us. We should not be choosing between paying exorbitant power costs and paying for groceries or rent and other necessities. 

ORIGINAL POST BELOW 

I am an ordinary citizen of Alabama, struggling with the high cost of essential utilities. Every month, my power bills are in excess of $500 and this month it has skyrocketed to over $800. This is a financial burden that many Alabamians share, as we have no other option but to pay these exorbitant fees for a service that is essential for our daily lives. 

Alabama Power holds a monopoly on electricity provision in our state which allows them to charge us whatever they want. Many of us are forced to make difficult choices between paying our power bill or other necessary expenses such as car payments, insurance premiums, groceries or even providing for our children's needs.

The situation calls for immediate intervention from regulatory bodies and lawmakers. In 2019, the average monthly residential electricity bill in Alabama was $142.38 according to U.S Energy Information Administration (EIA), significantly less than what many Alabamians are currently being charged.

We urge the Public Service Commission and state legislators to impose a cap on monthly charges by utility companies like Alabama Power. This would ensure fair pricing and prevent families from having to choose between keeping their lights on or meeting other basic needs.

Please sign this petition if you believe in affordable access to essential utilities for all Alabamians.