Georgia Power may use more fossil fuels than ever before, sparking heated debate across Georgia as the utility’s long-term plans come under scrutiny. As of late May 2025, the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) is preparing for a pivotal vote on July 15 that could shape the state’s energy future for decades. The latest round of hearings, beginning today, will determine whether Georgia Power’s 2025 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP)—which proposes a mix of renewables, nuclear, and an expanded reliance on fossil fuels—gets the green light.
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Georgia Power May Use More Fossil Fuels: What’s in the 2025 IRP?
Georgia Power’s 2025 IRP is a sweeping blueprint for meeting Georgia’s soaring energy needs, driven largely by the explosive growth of electricity-hungry data centers and the rise of artificial intelligence. The plan outlines billions in investments to upgrade infrastructure and expand capacity. Notably, Georgia Power may use a significant increase in fossil fuels, including:
- Construction of new methane gas units, potentially adding up to 9,000 megawatts of capacity by 2031
- Continued operation of coal-fired plants at Plant Scherer and Plant Bowen, with retirement dates pushed into the 2030s
- Upgrades to oil and gas-fired units at Plant McIntosh
- Ongoing use of coal and gas at Alabama’s Plant Gaston
While the IRP does include 1,100 megawatts of new renewable energy from solar and battery storage, critics argue this is overshadowed by the utility’s commitment to fossil fuels.
Why Georgia Power May Use More Fossil Fuels: The Data Center Boom
The primary driver behind Georgia Power’s push for more fossil fuels is the unprecedented demand from new data centers. Company projections suggest these facilities will consume up to 80% of the state’s electricity in the coming years. To keep up, Georgia Power insists it needs the flexibility and reliability that fossil fuel plants provide, especially during periods of peak demand.
However, environmental groups and consumer advocates question these projections, arguing the demand may be overstated. They warn that building unnecessary fossil fuel infrastructure could saddle ratepayers with higher bills and lock Georgia into decades of increased carbon emissions.
Critics Pan Georgia Power’s Plans: Environmental and Economic Concerns
The prospect that Georgia Power may use more fossil fuels has drawn sharp criticism from a broad coalition of environmental organizations, consumer advocates, and community groups. Their main concerns include:
- Climate Impact: Burning more coal and methane gas will increase greenhouse gas emissions, undermining Georgia’s efforts to combat climate change.
- Health Risks: Continued operation of aging coal plants exposes nearby communities to harmful air pollutants, as evidenced by recent exemptions from federal emission regulations for Plant Bowen and Plant Scherer.
- Rising Costs: Since 2023, the average Georgia Power residential customer has seen their monthly bill rise by $43, driven by higher base rates, natural gas costs, and the completion of new nuclear reactors.
- Lack of Renewables: The 2025 IRP excludes new solar or wind infrastructure, focusing instead on fossil fuels and nuclear, despite public demand for cleaner, more affordable energy options.
Key Points of Contention
- Georgia Power may use more fossil fuels to meet projected demand, but critics argue the demand forecasts are inflated.
- The utility’s plan to keep coal plants running contradicts earlier commitments to retire them.
- Environmental groups are calling for a greater emphasis on solar, wind, and energy efficiency measures.
What’s Next: PSC Hearings and the Future of Georgia’s Energy
The PSC’s upcoming hearings will be crucial. Commissioners are under pressure, facing voters for the first time in years after a legal delay in the election cycle. Some critics allege that a proposed freeze on base electric rates from 2026 to 2028 is a political move to shield incumbents rather than a genuine effort to protect consumers.
As the debate rages, Georgia Power maintains that its plan is necessary to ensure reliable, affordable energy for a rapidly growing state. Yet, with public opposition mounting and the stakes higher than ever, the outcome of the PSC’s July 15 vote will reverberate across Georgia’s economy, environment, and communities.
In summary:
- Georgia Power may use more fossil fuels in its 2025 IRP to meet surging demand, especially from data centers.
- Environmental and consumer groups strongly oppose the plan, citing climate, health, and economic risks.
- The PSC’s decision in July will determine whether Georgia’s energy future leans toward fossil fuels or clean alternatives.
Take Action:
Stay informed and make your voice heard. Attend PSC hearings, contact your commissioners, and demand a cleaner, more affordable energy future for Georgia.