_edited.png)
Alabama Power, PSC Corruption & Backroom Deals? Jeff Ramsey Says There’s a Better Way
- Apr 21
- 4 min read
Why are Alabamians paying some of the highest utility costs in the country while living in one of the most resource-rich states?
That question took center stage in the latest episode of Make It Make Sense, Alabama, where hosts Neeli Faulkner and Whitney Scapecchi sat down with Jeff Ramsey, a candidate for the Alabama Public Service Commission, for a wide-ranging and at times blunt conversation about power, politics, and who is actually benefiting from the current system.
The discussion covered everything from rising energy costs and controversial legislation to solar policy, corporate profits, and transparency in government. But one theme remained consistent throughout: What Alabama is doing right now isn't working.
Why Are Alabama Power Bills So High?
One of the biggest questions facing residents across the state is simple. Why do power bills feel so high?
According to Ramsey, the issue is not a lack of resources. Alabama has access to natural gas, coal, hydroelectric potential, and solar energy. Yet many residents continue to face rising costs.
The conversation repeatedly returned to Alabama Power, the state's largest electricity provider and the dominant force regulated by the PSC.
Ramsey pointed to a key concern. Alabama Power represents a relatively small percentage of its parent company's customer base, yet contributes a disproportionately large share of profits. That imbalance, he argued, raises serious questions about how rates are set and who ultimately benefits.
The Role of the Alabama Public Service Commission
The Alabama Public Service Commission is responsible for regulating utilities like Alabama Power, including approving rates and overseeing how services are delivered.
But critics argue the commission lacks transparency and accountability.
During the episode, Faulkner and Scapecchi pressed Ramsey on recent legislation that expanded the PSC from three members to seven, including four initially appointed positions. The change has sparked concern among watchdogs who fear it could limit meaningful reform.
Ramsey described the move as adding bureaucracy without addressing the core issue. Lowering costs for ratepayers.
He also raised concerns about the lack of formal rate cases in recent years, despite multiple rate increases. A rate case is typically a public process where utility companies must justify price changes.
“We haven’t had one since the 1980s,” Ramsey noted, while pointing out that rates have still increased significantly.
Transparency, Backroom Deals, and Public Trust
Throughout the conversation, transparency emerged as a central issue.
Faulkner, who has built her platform around accountability reporting, did not mince words.
“If you’re unwilling to be transparent, it’s because you’re hiding something,” she said.
Ramsey agreed, outlining a plan to bring more visibility to the PSC if elected. His proposal includes regular public updates, open communication with constituents, and increased accessibility to decision-making processes.
The concern from all sides is that many decisions affecting millions of residents are being made without meaningful public input.
Solar Energy, Stockton, and the Bigger Debate
The episode also explored the ongoing controversy surrounding solar projects in Alabama, including developments in Baldwin County that have drawn strong community reactions.
Ramsey made clear that he supports renewable energy. But he drew a line when it comes to land use and policy consistency.
He criticized what he described as a double standard. Large-scale solar developments are moving forward, while individual homeowners face penalties for installing solar panels.
In Alabama, residents who generate their own solar power can still be charged additional fees, often referred to as capacity charges.
“If we’re serious about clean energy, why are we discouraging people from using it?” Ramsey asked.
The broader issue, he said, is not just about solar. It is about who is allowed to benefit from energy production.
Jeff Ramsey's Working-Class Perspective on Energy Policy
Ramsey, who describes himself as an electrician rather than a politician, emphasized his working-class background throughout the discussion.
His campaign centers on affordability, transparency, and accountability. Three issues that directly affect everyday Alabamians.
He also pushed back against the idea that these concerns are partisan.
In one of the more notable takeaways from the episode, both hosts acknowledged that across multiple interviews with candidates from different political parties, there is often more agreement than disagreement on core issues.
The divide, they suggested, is less about policy and more about power.
The Bottom Line
The conversation made one thing clear. Utility regulation in Alabama is complicated, but the impact is straightforward.
Higher bills. Limited transparency. And a growing sense that the system is not working for the people it is supposed to serve.
Whether that changes will likely depend on increased public awareness and engagement, especially as elections approach.
As Ramsey put it: “There’s got to be a better way.”
Listen to the Full Interview Now
Listen to the full interview on Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Links to listen on other platforms including Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and more can be found here.
Episode Resources
Candidate Information
Jeff Ramsey's LinkTree with full contact information on all platforms: https://linktr.ee/alabamafella?fbclid=IwY2xjawRTQNlleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFOQ3RMQjZ2bDV1Q254Y1Nhc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHtNkR7_EOAMmNpb1SffMW1Ck6TKEKuvrunnXRqTgpc81N6BT--ZvLz3DycuK_aem_qK0J9GH5g-xD76zmvTFXlQ
Alabama Public Service Commission
Alabama Public Service Commission website: https://psc.alabama.gov/
Comments