News Summary
Georgia Power has started building 765 megawatts of new battery energy storage systems across Georgia to meet electricity demand and improve grid reliability. The initiative is part of the company’s Integrated Resource Plan, which anticipates significant growth in electrical load by 2030. Key projects include facilities in Bibb, Lowndes, Floyd, and Cherokee counties, aimed at enhancing the power grid’s resilience and efficiency while integrating renewable energy sources such as solar power.
Atlanta
Georgia Power has commenced the construction of 765 megawatts of new battery energy storage systems (BESS) throughout the state to meet rising electricity demands and enhance grid reliability. This initiative aligns with the company’s Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), which anticipates a significant growth in electrical load approaching 8,200 MW by 2030.
The construction of these BESS projects will take place across Bibb, Lowndes, Floyd, and Cherokee counties, providing crucial, quickly dispatchable capacity to support local customers. These systems will not only bolster the reliability and resilience of the power grid but also facilitate the integration of intermittent renewable energy sources such as solar power. In light of these advancements, it is expected that additional battery capacity will be acquired through competitive bidding, enhancing Georgia Power’s energy efficiency and management.
Key Projects in Development
Among the major planned BESS installations, notable projects include:
- Robins BESS: A 128 MW facility, strategically located near Robins Air Force Base and co-located with existing solar facilities.
- Hammond BESS: Set to utilize retired transmission infrastructure with an expected operational launch by June 2026.
- Moody BESS: A 36 MW facility in Lowndes County, also co-located with solar facilities, aims to be operational by November 2026.
- McGrau Ford BESS Phase I & II: A combined 530 MW capacity in Cherokee County, with expected operational dates in September and October 2026.
BESS Significance
The investment in BESS is crucial for managing the anticipated electricity demand boost driven mainly by data centers and mass electrification efforts. Georgia Power has noted that the first grid-connected battery facility, the Mossy Branch Energy Facility, is already operational, contributing 65 MW to the grid since February 2024. Furthermore, a 13 MW demonstration project is currently under development at Fort Stewart Army Installation near Savannah, showcasing the utility’s commitment to enhancing energy storage capabilities.
The Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) has authorized these projects, and Georgia Power is required to submit quarterly progress and financial reports during the construction phase. This oversight ensures that the projects remain on track and that Georgia consumers receive reliable service.
Moving Towards a Diverse Energy Future
Rick Anderson, the senior vice president at Georgia Power, emphasized that these battery installations are fundamental for developing a diverse energy mix that increasingly incorporates renewable energy sources. As part of the company’s strategy, plans are also in place for enhancing existing generation facilities and expanding customer-sited resources through initiatives like the Customer-Sited Solar Plus Storage Pilot, which aims for an initial capacity of 50 MW.
Future Outlook
As Georgia Power progresses with its upgrades to energy storage and grid management, it remains focused on meeting the energy needs of the growing population and businesses in the state. With the anticipated addition of 1,000 MW of new battery energy storage to be procured in the following years, Georgia Power’s commitment to upgrading its infrastructure and transitioning to a more sustainable energy model is more crucial than ever. This proactive approach not only addresses immediate power needs but also supports long-term environmental goals within the state’s energy landscape.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Power Engineering
- Wikipedia: Energy Storage
- PR Newswire
- Google Search: Georgia Power energy storage
- Canary Media
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Electricity
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
