Georgia Power Selects Sites for 500 MW Battery Projects

• Georgia Power is charging ahead with 500 MW of new battery storage, boosting renewable energy and grid reliability for customers by winter 2026/2027.

Georgia Power, a subsidiary of Southern Company, has announced the identification of four locations for new battery energy storage system (BESS) projects totaling 500 MW. These sites, authorized by the Georgia Public Service Commission, will provide dispatchable capacity to customers for the winter of 2026/2027. The planned projects include 128 MW in Bibb County, 49.5 MW in Lowndes County, 57.5 MW in Floyd County, and a substantial 265 MW expansion in Cherokee County.

Currently, Georgia Power is nearing completion of its 65 MW Mossy Branch facility in Talbot County and is developing the McGrau Ford Phase I BESS project, expected to be operational by late 2026. These initiatives align with the company's 2023 Integrated Resource Plan Update, emphasizing a commitment to expand renewable energy capabilities and enhance grid reliability.

What are the details of Georgia Power's new battery storage projects and their impact?

- Project Scope and Capacity: Georgia Power's new battery energy storage system (BESS) projects will collectively provide a capacity of 500 MW across four designated locations. This includes significant contributions from several regions, with 128 MW slated for Bibb County, 49.5 MW for Lowndes County, 57.5 MW for Floyd County, and an impressive 265 MW expansion in Cherokee County.

- Operational Timeline: The new BESS projects are expected to start delivering dispatchable capacity to customers during the winter season of 2026/2027. This timeline is crucial for integrating renewable energy sources and ensuring reliable electricity supply during peak demand periods in the colder months.

- Regulatory Approval: The sites for these projects have received authorization from the Georgia Public Service Commission, which is responsible for overseeing and regulating utility services in the state. This approval highlights the state’s commitment to advancing clean energy initiatives.

- Complementing Existing Projects: Georgia Power is concurrently finishing the development of the 65 MW Mossy Branch facility in Talbot County. Additionally, the McGrau Ford Phase I BESS project is underway and is expected to become operational by late 2026, further contributing to the state's energy storage capacity.

- Alignment with Integrated Resource Plan: The announcement aligns with Georgia Power's 2023 Integrated Resource Plan Update, which demonstrates the company's strategy to enhance renewable energy capabilities. This approach is part of a broader initiative to transition toward cleaner energy sources and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

- Benefits of Battery Storage: The expansion of battery storage systems is pivotal in stabilizing the electricity grid by providing energy during peak demand times and compensating for the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources like solar and wind. This capability not only enhances grid reliability but also supports the integration of a growing share of renewable energy into the grid.

- Environmental Impact: By investing in battery storage technology, Georgia Power is taking steps to reduce carbon emissions and support the state's environmental goals. The initiative reflects a growing trend among utility companies to embrace sustainable practices and contribute to climate change mitigation.

- Local Economic Development: These new projects are likely to create jobs during both the construction and operational phases, contributing positively to local economies. Additionally, the increased investment in energy infrastructure can spur further economic opportunities in the surrounding communities.

- Long-term Strategic Goals: These initiatives are part of Georgia Power's long-term vision to create a more resilient and sustainable energy grid. By diversifying energy sources through battery storage, the company aims to ensure energy security and mitigate risks associated with climate impacts.

- Customer Impact: The implementation of these battery storage systems is expected to enhance service reliability and provide a buffer against price fluctuations in the energy market, ultimately benefiting consumers by stabilizing energy costs.