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Georgia Power Defends Massive Energy Expansion Plan Amid Rate Hike Concerns

ATLANTA, Ga. – Georgia Power is standing firm on its proposal to add approximately 10,000 megawatts of energy capacity, primarily to power the state’s burgeoning data center industry. The utility company filed new testimony on Wednesday, pushing back against concerns that the massive expansion could lead to significant rate increases for residential customers.

The proposal, which requires approval from the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC), has drawn scrutiny from the PSC’s own Public Interest Advocacy (PIA) staff. Earlier this month, the PIA warned that the project could potentially add $20 a month to residential utility bills if the projected revenue from new data centers fails to materialize.

Georgia Power, however, insists that residential customers will not bear the burden of the expansion. In its rebuttal testimony, the company argues that the PIA staff failed to account for the revenue generated by the data centers, which would offset the costs of the additional energy resources. They emphasize that new data center customers will cover the costs of serving them.

The company also highlights its current rate freeze, which will remain in effect through 2028. According to Georgia Power, rejecting the proposal could hinder the company’s ability to attract new data centers, stifle economic development in Georgia, and potentially increase rates for all customers. The company claims to have commitments for 7,900 MW under contract with data centers planning or under development in Georgia.

The PIA staff has urged the PSC to consider alternative approaches, such as requiring signed contracts from data centers before approving funding for new infrastructure. They cite examples from other states, like Kentucky, where similar regulations are in place. PIA staff recommended the PSC to reject Georgia Power’s proposal and instead approve the acquisition of 3,125 MW of resources and conditionally certify another 4,298 MWs.

The PSC is scheduled to vote on Georgia Power’s proposal on December 19th. The five-member board is currently composed of Republicans, although two newly elected Democrats will join the commission in January 2026. The decision will have significant implications for Georgia’s energy future and the pocketbooks of its residents.

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