The General Assembly recognizes the importance of effective and economical public utilities to the economy of the State of Georgia. It is further recognized that the citizens of Georgia should receive adequate utility services at the lowest reasonable cost to the consumer while maintaining the ability of public utilities to furnish their products and services. It is further recognized that consumers should receive the benefit of technological advances. It is further recognized that the Public Service Commission has been established for the purpose of regulating public utilities and the rates which they charge the consumer and that the commission is responsible for representing the public interest. The General Assembly is aware, however, that the commission must be furnished with all available information concerning the effects of its decisions in rate cases and proceedings before it. It is the purpose of this chapter to ensure that the commission receives such information, particularly in those cases which directly involve the vast majority of Georgia's citizens.