Exhibit 23(a)


INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT



We consent to the  incorporation  by reference in  Registration  Statement  Nos.
33-49577  and  33-52759  of Central  Power and Light  Company on Form S-3 of our
reports dated February 22, 2002,  appearing in and  incorporated by reference in
this Annual  Report on Form 10-K of Central Power and Light Company for the year
ended December 31, 2001.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP


Deloitte & Touche LLP
Columbus, Ohio
March 28, 2002