Energy program to attract business

Businesses that want to move to, expand or stay afloat in Georgia can now get extra help with utility equipment and infrastructure.

A five-year experimental program, approved by state utility regulators last week, lets Atlanta Gas Light help finance gas line extensions, new natural gas equipment and equipment installation for eligible companies.

The company says the program isn’t reserved for gas users, although it will likely tilt that way. Other eligible projects could include work such as water conservation or lighting improvements.

“We want to keep things open,” spokeswoman Tami Gerke said.

Called the Sustainable Environmental Economic Development program, or SEED, the program is designed partly in anticipation of carbon limits out of Washington: Natural gas has a smaller carbon footprint than electricity.

The company will finance improvements eligible for the help, with the state Public Service Commission reviewing each contract.

The PSC will approve all of the contracts, the company said.

The company said ratepayer money will not finance the program.