News Summary
Georgia Power has initiated construction on new battery energy storage systems totaling 765 megawatts across four counties in Georgia. These projects aim to enhance the reliability of the electric system and support the growing use of renewable energy. The installations, authorized by the Georgia Public Service Commission, will provide dispatchable energy capacity and address demand fluctuations. Future plans include additional 1,000 MW of battery storage, demonstrating Georgia Power’s commitment to improving energy infrastructure and integrating renewable solutions for a stable energy supply.
Atlanta, Georgia – Georgia Power has announced the commencement of construction on new battery energy storage systems (BESS) totaling 765 megawatts (MW) across four counties in Georgia. The facilities are set to enhance the reliability of the state’s electric system and support the growing adoption of renewable energy sources.
The new BESS projects will be installed in Bibb, Lowndes, Floyd, and Cherokee counties. This initiative was authorized by the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) as part of the statewide Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) process. The new energy storage systems will provide quickly dispatchable energy capacity, capable of balancing demand fluctuations by storing excess energy generated during low-demand periods for use during peak demand.
Details of Current Projects
The ongoing BESS installations include:
- Facilities next to Robins Air Force Base in Houston County, co-located with an existing solar site, developed by Burns & McDonnell with a projected operational date of June 2026.
- Moody Air Force Base in Lowndes County, with Crowder Industrial Construction overseeing the project, expected to be operational by May 2026.
- A standalone BESS at the retired coal-burning Plant Hammond in Floyd County, also overseen by Crowder Industrial Construction, targeted for completion by November 2026.
- Expansion of capacity at the McGrau Ford Battery Facility in Cherokee County, with projected operation dates across separate phases in October 2026 and September 2026.
Benefits of Battery Energy Storage Systems
The battery storage systems will be integral in improving the overall resilience of the electric grid while enhancing the efficiency of intermittent renewable generation resources, such as solar energy. By effectively managing energy supply, these systems can mitigate issues associated with demand spikes, particularly on cold winter mornings.
Georgia Power’s previous investment in battery storage includes the Mossy Branch facility that began operations last year, marking the company’s increased commitment towards integrating renewable energy solutions into the state’s energy infrastructure.
Future Plans and Initiatives
Looking ahead, Georgia Power plans to procure an additional 1,000 MW of battery energy storage through competitive bidding in the upcoming years. Additionally, a 13 MW demonstration project is currently under development at Fort Stewart Army Installation near Savannah, Georgia, showcasing the company’s ongoing innovation in battery storage technology.
The company is also preparing for future IRPs, which are expected to include further expansions of BESS assets. The 2025 IRP will focus on two expansions of BESS programs, looking to enhance the existing Customer Connected Solar Program and initiate a new Customer-Sited Solar Plus Storage Pilot. This pilot aims for an initial capacity of 50 MW to serve residential and small commercial customers, encouraging the pairing of dispatchable BESS with behind-the-meter solar generation.
Importance of Energy Storage Solutions
The integration of battery energy storage systems is becoming increasingly critical as reliance on renewable energy sources grows. These systems are designed to enhance the electric grid’s capability to adapt to varying energy demands and fluctuations in renewable energy generation. By investing in this technology, Georgia Power aims to ensure a stable and reliable energy supply for its customers now and in the future.
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