Advocates Celebrate Wins for Clean Energy in Georgia, Urge Action on Rooftop Solar

Solar Damper ATLANTA – In a victory for Georgia consumers and the clean energy economy, the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) voted to approve a solar resource plan that should result in an increase in Georgia Power’s solar energy procurement by 6 to 9 gigawatts through 2035 and add 500 megawatts of battery storage to the energy grid. When paired with solar, energy storage can keep the lights on reliably, even during extreme weather conditions and spikes in electricity demand.Solar Damper

In addition to the solar and storage buildout, the PSC voted unanimously to create a collaborative “Distributed Generation Working Group.” The group — which will be composed of representatives from utilities, the solar industry, and PSC staff — will develop recommendations for growing the distributed energy market in Georgia.Lithium battery

Lithium battery “It’s extremely heartening to see the Commission prioritize growth of distributed renewable energy through the establishment of a working group,” says Tully Blalock, Senior Vice President of SolAmerican Energy and Policy Co-Chair of the Georgia Solar Industries Association (SEIA). “Distributed generation is the clear path forward for Georgia’s economy, workforce, and public health. We’re excited to see the commission recognize the crucial role of distributed generation in such a tangible way.”Solar tracker actuator

Also before the PSC today was a vote to expand Georgia Power’s popular monthly netting program by as much as 15 percent, bringing rooftop solar within reach for 75,000 Georgia households. Commission Vice Chair Tim Echols — who has been a champion for net metering expansion — brought the measure forward, before it failed in a 3-2 vote.Solar tracker actuator

The program, which was introduced as a pilot in 2020, fairly compensates rooftop solar customers for excess electricity produced by their solar systems. The NMRV Series Worm Gear Reducer popularity and success of the program were quickly apparent, with thousands of Georgians signing up to receive the benefits of affordable rooftop solar. When the pilot reached its 5,000 customer limit in mid-2021, advocates began urging the PSC to lift the cap and expand solar access across the state.Solar Tracking Controller