FAQs-Background
Why did Georgia Power install a gas pipeline?
Installation of a 19-mile gas pipeline, of which 95 percent is located within Georgia Power's existing transmission line route, serves as a means of transporting gas to the three combined-cycle units at Plant McDonough from the Southern Natural Gas system north of Union City, Georgia.
What happens if the gas supply is interrupted?
In the event natural gas supply is limited, an oil backup and supply system will be incorporated into the facility plan.
Why did Georgia Power propose this route to install the pipeline versus other locations?
The route for this pipeline is the most prudent investment for customers due to challenges with getting access to gas lines coming from alternate locations on the Southern Natural Gas system. Also, this route is least disruptive to the community because 95 percent of it is within Georgia Power's existing transmission line right-of-way.
How much property was required?
A 30-foot strip within Georgia Power's existing electric line right-of-way was required to operate and maintain the pipeline.
Has Georgia Power met with property owners, public officials and community leaders about this project?
Georgia Power met with affected property owners, public officials, community leaders and other external stakeholder groups in 2007 to discuss the pipeline project. At that time, the company notified property owners of any vegetation or trees that would need to be removed from the pipeline easement area prior to construction. Georgia Power also held four open houses in Fulton and Cobb counties which were widely publicized and open to the public. Georgia Power notified affected property owners and external contacts in October 2008 to discuss the next phases of the project and met with them again in January and February of 2009 prior to the construction phase of the project.
Did Georgia Power compensate affected property owners for easement rights?
Property owners whose land includes easement rights for the existing transmission right-of-way received additional fair market compensation for the gas pipeline easement. Georgia Power worked with property owners to acquire easement rights for the 5 percent of right-of-way that is not located on the existing transmission right-of-way.
How much will the combined-cycle plants and the pipeline cost?
The costs of the combined-cycle generating units and the pipeline are part of a competitive solicitation process overseen by the Public Service Commission. These costs were competitively bid into this process and are confidential to protect the integrity of the process.
Does Georgia Power own other pipelines in the state?
Georgia Power currently owns three natural gas pipelines in Georgia that serve three natural gas-fueled plants. In addition, other affiliates of Southern Company own one natural gas pipeline in Georgia and three natural gas pipelines in other states. All of these pipelines serve natural gas-fueled plants.
Will there be any local benefits from this pipeline project?
Yes. This pipeline project will help provide environmental benefits to the entire metro Atlanta area. Natural gas is an environmentally friendly fuel for electric power generation. The new natural gas units would provide millions of dollars in economic benefit through jobs and taxes.
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