PSC staff warns that Georgia Power’s added capacity request may increase customer costs

PSC Staff Warns About Costs of Georgia Power’s New Capacity Plan

Background

Two internal reports from the professional staff of Georgia’s Public Service Commission (PSC) warn that Georgia Power may be greatly overestimating its future energy generation needs. The reports were presented to the commission as part of its review of the company’s recent proposal to add new generation capacity.

Staff Findings

According to the PSC staff analysis, the utility’s request could lead to higher expenses for consumers without clear justification. Staff members argue that Georgia Power’s demand projections appear inflated compared to independent forecasts of energy usage over the next decade.

“Customers could face unnecessary costs if Georgia Power builds more capacity than the state actually needs,” one PSC report stated.

The assessment also questions whether the company fully considered alternatives such as expanded energy efficiency programs, battery storage, and renewable energy expansion before seeking approval for new capacity.

Georgia Power’s Position

Georgia Power maintains that its plan is necessary to ensure reliability and to meet potential future demand associated with population growth and industrial expansion across the state. Company representatives have emphasized their commitment to affordable and dependable electricity service.

Next Steps

The PSC is expected to review both staff recommendations and Georgia Power’s justifications before voting on the proposal. A final decision will determine whether the utility can proceed with funding and construction of new generation resources.

“The commission’s ruling will balance energy reliability with fairness to Georgia’s ratepayers,” a PSC spokesperson said.

Author Summary

PSC staff challenge Georgia Power’s projection for new capacity, warning the plan could impose avoidable costs on consumers if approved.

Georgia Public Broadcasting — 2025-11-25