Alabama Power has withdrawn its notice of intent to operate a pumped storage hydro facility on Chandler Mountain, the company announced today.

The decision comes in the wake of criticism by residents and officials, including Twinkle Cavanaugh, president of the Public Service Commission.

“After careful consideration, Alabama Power has decided to withdraw its Notice of Intent to seek a license from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to operate a Pumped Storage Hydro facility at Chandler Mountain,” the company said. “Our guiding purpose is to provide clean, safe, reliable and affordable power to the 1.5 million people and businesses that depend on us. As we look to the future, we recognize that alternative resources as well as energy storage options will be key in meeting the ever-changing needs of our customers.”

“Alabama Power will continue to explore all available technologies with due diligence, striving to power a better Alabama in ways that align with the evolving needs and expectations of our customers. We appreciate the feedback received by all parties involved with the exploration of the Chandler Mountain project.”

Had the project gone through, an Alabama Power representative said it could have produced enough energy to power 400,000 homes annually.

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.