Energy Affordability in Georgia

Energy costs continue to impact Georgia households, though awareness of the regulatory system remains limited.

Key Findings

  • The average winter energy burden in Georgia is 9.52%.

  • 32.02% of respondents said they do not understand what appears on their energy bill.

  • 28.10% of respondents do not know what the Georgia Public Service Commission (GPSC) is or that it regulates energy prices.


 
 

How the Georgia Electricity Market Works

Many Georgia residents receive electricity from Georgia Power, while others are served by Electric Membership Cooperatives (EMCs) or municipal utilities.

Investor Owned Utilities (IOUs)

  • Georgia Power:

    • Regulated by the GA Public Service Commission (PSC)

      • Generates or purchases electricity

      • Owns and maintains transmission and distribution infrastructure

      • Delivers electricity to homes and businesses

    • Customers cannot switch to another provider.

Electric Membership Cooperatives (EMCs)

    • Governed by a Board of Directors elected by cooperative members.

    • Member-owned electric cooperatives such as Carroll EMC

    • Governed by elected Boards of Directors

    • Members can vote in cooperative elections

    • Members may receive Capital Credits

How Rates Set?

Georgia Power:

  • Georgia Power’s rates are set through a multi-step regulatory process overseen by the GA Public Service Commission (PSC). 

  • EMCs:

    • Rates are established by the cooperative's Board of Directors based on the cost of providing reliable electric service to members.

 

Georgia Public Service Commission (GPSC)

The Georgia Public Service Commission reviews and approves electricity rates and oversees key utility decisions. Energy policies and utility rate decisions affect household budgets across the state.




 
 

Highlights of the state’s contribution to the national campaign

Take Action!

Community participation in elections and public processes helps ensure energy policies reflect the needs of Georgia residents.

State Resources

You’re typically served by Georgia Power or a local Electric Membership Cooperative (EMC). Use this resource to find all EMCs across the state.

How to Read your Energy Bill

Hurricane Prep Map in ENG/ESP

Use this to see Georgias Energy Portfolio

 

Sample Energy Bill

A nonprofit dedicated to advocating for the people and keeping the PSC accountable

 

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