Atmos Energy 2007 Annual Report Download - page 16

14
Regulated
Operations
BRIDGING THE FUTURE
Distributing Natural Gas in 1,600 Communities. Our roots and our passion for customer service spring from
our community involvement. Our distribution business delivers natural gas to 3.2 million customers in more
than 1,600 cities, big and small, that we serve. To us, our customers are much more than just consumers;
they’re our neighbors. We share the same values, work for the same causes and raise our children together.
At Atmos Energy, we are dedicated to being not only a responsible supplier, but also a valuable contributor
to the communities we call home.
in1,600communities
We take pride in our reputation as a
good citizen and good neighbor. At
South Elementary School in Jackson,
Missouri, Manager of Public Affairs
Steve Green talks with fourth-grade
students about saving energy in
their homes. By educating these
future consumers as part of our
revenue decoupling plan in Missouri,
we are encouraging long-term
energy efficiency and conservation.
WE DON’T SET THE PRICE
Our natural gas distribution business seeks fairness for both our regulated customers and
our shareholders. Because we don’t set our own prices, we must file revenue requests to
keep our prices current. Our rates must pay for needed expansion, cover operating
expenses to ensure safe and reliable gas-delivery service and provide our investors
adequate returns. Our ongoing goal is to deliver natural gas to customers as economically
as possible. Yet, like any business, we must be allowed to earn sufficient profits to
preserve our financial condition and to attract capital for future growth. Periodic rate
reviews by regulators are necessary to keep our rates refreshed and our operations healthy.
FRANKLY SPEAKING