Georgia Power has announced a stipulated agreement with the Public Interest Advocacy (PIA) Staff of the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) aimed at keeping electricity costs low while meeting rising energy demand in Georgia. The agreement, which is pending approval by the PSC, would allow Georgia Power to add approximately 9,900 megawatts (MW) of new resources to its energy portfolio.
Most of these new resources were secured through a competitive bidding process. Under the terms of the agreement, when Georgia Power files its next base rate case in 2028, it will ensure that incremental revenue from large-load customers reaches at least $556 million per year. This measure is expected to lower rates for typical residential customers by at least $8.50 per month, or about $102 annually for those using 1,000 kilowatt-hours monthly.
“We know every dollar counts. This plan means more money stays in your pocket while we power Georgia’s future,” said Kim Greene, chairman, president and CEO of Georgia Power. “Unlike any other market in the country, we’re doing things differently here in Georgia to capture and serve this projected unprecedented growth. This stipulated agreement helps ensure we leverage Georgia’s growth in a way that lowers costs for customers. Large energy users are paying more so families and small businesses can pay less, and that’s a great result for Georgians.”
The state continues to see economic expansion and increased electricity needs due to robust development activity. The agreement highlights how major consumers like data centers contribute to lowering costs for all customers while supporting infrastructure improvements across the grid.
If approved by regulators, the company will proceed with adding over 3,600 MW of combined cycle natural gas generation capacity; more than 3,000 MW of battery energy storage systems; 350 MW combining battery storage with solar power; and over 2,800 MW via power purchase agreements. These additions are intended to serve all customers as part of a diversified generation strategy.
Georgia Power plans to continue submitting quarterly reports on large-load growth and electrical demand forecasts to the PSC. The most recent report indicates ongoing increases in high-demand projects statewide and construction activities tied to nearly 30 large-scale projects.
Recent regulatory changes require potential large-load clients to meet stricter financial and infrastructure standards before being included in long-term planning forecasts. In line with these rules adopted earlier this year by the PSC, Georgia Power has submitted contracts totaling over three gigawatts for new customer projects under these enhanced criteria.
For additional information on how Georgia Power manages reliability and affordability for its customers across the state, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com.
