Georgia Power invests in energy capacity and infrastructure modernization.
Georgia Power has received approval for its 2025 Integrated Resource Plan, enabling significant expansions in coal, gas, and nuclear capacities to meet rising electricity demand. This action anticipates an 8,500 megawatt increase over the next six years, largely driven by new commercial and industrial projects. The plan includes a rate freeze and investment in renewable energy sources while focusing on modernizing infrastructure to ensure reliability and sustainability for Georgians.
ATLANTA – The Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) has approved Georgia Power’s 2025 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) on July 15, 2025, allowing the utility to make significant extensions to its energy capacity in coal, gas, and nuclear facilities to meet growing electricity demand. This decision is expected to accommodate a projected growth of approximately 8,500 megawatts (MW) in electrical load over the next six years.
The approval marks an increase of about 2,600 MW in peak demand compared to the previous 2023 IRP Update. Georgia Power anticipates that the growth in load will be primarily led by commercial and industrial projects, including key new customers like Hyundai’s EV Metaplant and the SK Battery facility.
The approval follows months of filings, hearings, and public discussions regarding Georgia Power’s long-term energy strategy. An agreement was established among various stakeholders, including the U.S. Department of Defense and multiple industry associations, to address and resolve outstanding concerns related to the IRP.
Key components of the approved plan involve the extension of operations for certain coal and gas units beyond December 31, 2028. Furthermore, Georgia Power is permitted to pursue the procurement of up to 4,000 MW of new renewable energy resources by 2035, working towards a target renewable resource portfolio of approximately 11,000 MW, which also includes more than 1,500 MW integrated with battery energy storage.
As part of its strategy to enhance reliability, Georgia Power plans to implement over 1,000 miles of new transmission projects. These initiatives are designed to boost grid reliability and manage the shifting loads expected from the projected growth. The PSC has also approved a rate freeze on Georgia Power’s base rates through at least the end of 2028, aiming to keep energy costs low while accommodating rising demands.
The long-term plan emphasizes modernizing the electric grid, incorporating technologies like real-time monitoring, smart meters, and advanced data analytics. These advancements are intended to allow Georgia Power to respond more effectively to outages. Currently, the utility’s self-healing grid technology safeguards over 70% of customers by quickly rerouting power during disruptions, which prevented nearly 94 million outage minutes in 2024, dramatically benefiting almost 2 million customers. Furthermore, Georgia Power operates its private LTE wireless network, Southern Linc, ensuring adequate communication during emergencies, as demonstrated during restoration efforts after Hurricane Helene.
The IRP also encompasses expanded programs aimed at customers, including solar-plus-storage options, energy efficiency audits, and demand response initiatives. Georgia Power intends to implement a comprehensive vegetation management strategy in urban areas, targeting tree control to reduce outages, particularly in densely wooded regions like Atlanta.
Georgia Power will maintain ongoing collaborations and provide updates regarding substantial load developments to PSC staff every six months. This initiative aims to ensure proper oversight and accountability in implementing the approved plan.
The 2025 Integrated Resource Plan signifies Georgia Power’s commitment to balancing reliability, affordability, and sustainability while striving to meet the increasing energy demands of Georgians. The approved plan seeks to foster a future where energy needs are effectively managed through modern infrastructure and increased reliance on renewable energy sources.
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