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Georgia Power's New Energy Resource Certification Request

Georgia Power has officially submitted a request for certification to the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) for approximately 9,900 megawatts (MW) of new electrical resources. This ambitious proposal aims to address the growing energy needs of the state and follows the company's 2022 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) Final Order.

The recent efforts focus significantly on incorporating a diverse energy mix, which includes cleaner energy technologies like natural gas turbines and advanced battery energy storage systems (BESS), alongside solar energy projects. According to Georgia Power, approximately 8,000 MW of the requested resources were identified through competitive bids in an “all-source” request for proposals (RFP). The integration of these resources is critical for sustaining economic growth and ensuring reliable energy supply for Georgia residents.

Detailed Overview of the Proposal

The new resources proposed by Georgia Power will be strategically developed to meet capacity needs projected from 2029 to 2031, during times of peak demand, particularly during extreme weather conditions. This approach is aimed at maintaining an uninterrupted power supply for customers across Georgia.

In a noteworthy statement, Rick Anderson, Senior Vice President of Georgia Power, emphasized the importance of proactive energy planning. He remarked, "Every day, around the clock, during periods of extreme heat, extreme cold, and everything in between, our teams are working to keep reliable energy flowing for millions of Georgians."

At the core of the proposed system enhancement are five new combined cycle (CC) gas units, which will contribute a total of 3,692 MW of capacity to the grid. These units are expected to be located at sites such as Plant Bowen, McIntosh, and Wansley, reinforcing the state's commitment to utilizing a diverse energy generation approach that emphasizes reliability and environmental sustainability.

BESS and Solar Integration

In addition to gas generation, Georgia Power is making strides in battery energy storage technology. Currently, the company is overseeing the development of 765 MW of BESS across various counties in Georgia. These BESS systems are designed to lend additional reliability to the electric grid by storing excess energy produced during off-peak hours and discharging it during higher demand periods.

Further, Georgia Power's certification request seeks the incorporation of 10 new BESS facilities, totaling 3,022.5 MW. Notable locations for the new BESS include Plant Bowen and Plant Yates, amongst others. This strategic placement helps not just in fluctuating energy demand management but also in optimizing the use of renewable energy outputs, particularly from solar resources.

Two upcoming large-scale solar initiatives paired with BESS, set to provide a combined 350 MW, signify Georgia Power's dedication to increasing renewable energy utilization within its generation portfolio. The selected sites for these projects are characterized by high solar irradiance, ensuring effective energy capture.

Conclusion

With this comprehensive certification request, Georgia Power is positioning itself to not only meet growing energy demands in Georgia but is also making substantial commitments towards reducing carbon emissions. The utility’s diverse energy portfolio and a focus on sustainable practices reflect its dedication to long-term environmental stewardship, fulfilling the needs of its 2.8 million customers. As the energy landscape evolves, Georgia Power remains at the forefront, aiming to deliver safe, reliable, and cost-effective electricity across Georgia. For those interested in the specifics of Georgia Power's resource planning, details are accessible at Georgia Power's website.