ATLANTA (AP) — Georgia Power intends to rely more on solar power than in past years to deliver energy to homes and businesses. It will also close a coal-fired power plant in northwest Georgia.

WABE-FM reports that it's part of the company's long-range energy plan, which was recently approved by the Georgia Public Service Commission.

Under the plan, Georgia Power will close its coal-fired power plant near Rome, Georgia.

Also part of the plan: the company says it will add more wood burning to its energy mix.

Georgia Power has proposed an increase in rates by about 7 percent. Hearings on that matter are scheduled to begin later this year.

___

Information from: WABE-FM, http://www.wabe.org/