PSC gives new approval to controversial Kemper power plant

KEMPER COUNTY — The Mississippi Public Service Commission has given new approval for Mississippi Power Co.’s coal-fired power plant in Kemper County, pushing aside opponents call for a fresh look at the plant’s finances.

The commission voted 2-1 to approve the $2.4 billion plant today. Southern District Commissioner Leonard Bentz and Central District Commissioner Lynn Posey, both Republicans, voted for the plant. Northern District Commissioner Brandon Presley, a Democrat, voted against.

The PSC had to vote for the plant again after the state Supreme Court ruled last month that regulators didn’t fully explain why they raised a cost cap from $2.4 billion to $2.88 billion. The Sierra Club, which opposes the plant, brought the lawsuit that led to that decision.

Commissioners said today’s ruling does not raise the $2.88 billion cost cap.