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Council asks regional operator for expedited resource study to support new generation near Coca‑Cola plant
Summary
West Memphis approved a resolution asking the regional market operator to conduct an expedited resource adequacy study so generation can be added to serve a new load near the Coca‑Cola plant; city staff said the study request itself brings no immediate cost and shortens the typical study timeline from roughly five years to about one year.
The West Memphis City Council approved a resolution authorizing the city clerk to submit a retail electric regulatory authority verification letter requesting an expedited resource adequacy study from the regional market operator to evaluate adding generation to serve new load near the Coca‑Cola plant.
Councilor Muhammed moved the resolution (R1) and Councilor Murray seconded. City staff member Bob Atkins explained the request: the city is acting as the regulatory authority for West Memphis utilities and is asking the market operator to expedite a study that normally sits in a five‑year queue so that it can be completed in roughly one year. Atkins said the city’s request is for a study only and will not impose additional costs on the city as part of the request.
The council approved the resolution and the clerk assigned resolution number 23472347. Councilors indicated the action is procedural — initiating a study that will inform any future decisions about siting or building generation.
The resolution directs staff to submit the verification letter and seek the expedited study; any future proposal to build generation would require separate approvals and permits.
