EXHIBIT 23

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT



We consent to the incorporation by reference in  Post-Effective  Amendment No. 1
to Registration  Statement No. 333-100632 of Southwestern Electric Power Company
on  Form  S-3  of  our  reports  dated  February  21,  2003,  appearing  in  and
incorporated  by  reference in this Annual  Report on Form 10-K of  Southwestern
Electric Power Company for the year ended December 31, 2002.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Deloitte & Touche LLP
Columbus, Ohio
March 20, 2003