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Georgia Power's Historic Solar Energy Expansion

On September 10, 2026, Georgia Power made headlines with the approval from the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) for a staggering 1,137 megawatts (MW) of new solar power purchase agreements (PPAs). This substantial enhancement comes through the company's CARES program, specifically the CARES 2023 and CARES 2025 request for proposals (RFP) initiatives.

This latest solar procurement stands as the most significant in the company's history, bolstering its commitment to renewable energy. The CARES program, designed in collaboration with the Georgia PSC, has garnered rising interest from customers keen on engaging in sustainability initiatives. Through these subscriptions, customers can invest in renewable resources while also enjoying the benefits of affordable energy.

Wilson Mallard, the director of renewable development for Georgia Power, expressed optimism about the benefits these new solar resources would bring. He remarked, "These new solar resources will deliver affordable and reliable energy at a fixed price for the benefit of all Georgia Power customers for years to come." This sentiment underscores the importance of these initiatives not only in carbon footprint reduction but also in providing stable pricing for customers in a fluctuating energy market.

The new agreements encompass seven solar PPAs across various counties, including Appling County (78 MW), Decatur County (130 MW), and others, totaling 1,137 MW. Remarkably, many of these projects are expected to commence commercial operations by 2029, marking a future where solar energy plays an increasingly pivotal role in Georgia's energy mix.

Striving for a Sustainable Future

In an era where renewable energy is prioritized, Georgia Power's proactive approach reflects a broader shift in the energy landscape. Following the approval of an additional 1,068 MW for the CARES 2023 program in September 2025, the company continues to pursue strategies to meet the growing demand for clean energy.

Georgia Power's renewable energy strategy is customer-centric and is continuously evolving. The introduction of the CARES Customer Identified Resource (CARES CIR) program allows commercial and industrial customers to propose renewable energy projects, creating a participatory model where customers can influence the direction of energy resource development.

The CARES CIR program is ambitious, potentially adding up to 3,000 MW of additional renewable energy projects, structured into two subcategories: utility-scale and distributed generation. This segmentation is pivotal for accommodating varying energy demands among customers, further diversifying Georgia Power’s renewable offerings.

The Road Ahead

As Georgia Power progresses in its mission to deliver clean, reliable, and affordable energy, these solar initiatives underscore its commitment to sustainability. With continuous customer engagement and innovative program structures, Georgia Power is not just enhancing its renewable portfolio but also setting benchmarks for the energy sector. Customers are encouraged to learn more about these groundbreaking developments by visiting Georgia Power's designated CARES program web page.

Georgia Power, as a leading electric utility, emphasizes a diverse generation mix, including solar, hydroelectric, and wind energy alongside more traditional sources. This strategic approach encapsulates their promise of reliable service and aligns with a growing recognition of the importance of renewable energy. As the landscape of energy generation evolves, Georgia Power stands committed to ensuring with transparency and efficiency that its customers receive the utmost value.

In conclusion, Georgia Power’s recent approval for a record-breaking capacity of solar energy not only signifies a monumental step towards a renewable future but also emphasizes their ongoing efforts to deliver affordable, reliable, and clean energy solutions. As the company pushes forward, the ripple effect of these initiatives will continue transforming the energy landscape of Georgia for the better.