Georgia Power’s Clean Energy Shift: Batteries, Solar, and Customer Programs
Georgia Power, a major utility provider in the state of Georgia, is undergoing a significant shift towards cleaner energy options, including a notable increase in the use of battery storage systems. Despite not being bound by renewable portfolio standards or other mandates, Georgia Power has been actively investing in solar energy, with approximately 3.8 gigawatts of solar capacity installed by the end of 2022, placing Georgia among the top 10 states for solar growth.
In addition to solar, Georgia Power has also embraced battery storage technology, installing a 65-megawatt battery system earlier this year. The utility has plans to expand its energy storage capacity to over half a gigawatt, highlighting a clear shift towards incorporating more clean energy resources into its grid.
However, ongoing concerns surround the utility’s approach to competitive procurement programs for clean energy projects. While Georgia Power has been mandated by the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) to explore alternative options for expanding clean energy capacity, critics argue that the utility’s competitive procurement processes have been slow and restrictive, potentially hindering the adoption of cheaper and cleaner energy sources.
One area of contention has been the utility’s procurement of utility-scale clean energy projects, with delays and cost limitations affecting the progress of these initiatives. Despite awarding contracts for 970 megawatts of projects in 2021, supply chain issues have led to delays in project implementation, raising questions about Georgia Power’s commitment to advancing clean energy solutions.
Concerns have been raised about the utility’s potential plans to expand its fossil-fueled power plants, including the construction of combined-cycle gas turbines that could significantly increase emissions. The possibility of extending the operation of coal-fired power plants beyond their planned retirement dates has also sparked apprehension among environmental groups, as continuing to rely on coal could lock in a dependence on fossil fuels for the foreseeable future.
Despite these challenges, there are opportunities for Georgia Power to further diversify its energy sources and engage utility customers in the transition to cleaner energy options. Collaborative efforts with organizations like the Corporate Energy Buyers Association (CEBA) have led to the development of innovative programs that enable commercial and industrial customers to access clean energy through power purchase agreements and distributed energy resources.
By expanding the availability of clean energy options and incentivizing customer participation in demand response programs, Georgia Power has the potential to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy sources and reduce its overall carbon footprint. With continued collaboration and investment in clean energy technologies, Georgia Power can navigate the evolving energy landscape and play a pivotal role in driving sustainable energy solutions for the state of Georgia.