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.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- MSN News
- Wikipedia: Energy Storage
- Savannah Now
- Google Search: Battery Energy Storage Systems
- Valdosta Daily Times
- Google Scholar: Georgia Power Battery Storage
- PR Newswire
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Energy Storage Technology
- Power Engineering
- Google News: Georgia Power energy storage
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
