Over the past five years, Georgia Power customers have experienced several rate increases impacting their monthly utility bills. In December 2022, the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) approved a rate plan that included phased increases over 2023, 2024, and 2025. As a result, customers saw a 2.5% increase in January 2023, followed by a 4.5% increase in 2024, with another 4.5% increase scheduled for 2025.
In addition to these planned increases, the PSC approved a 12% rate hike that took effect in June 2023, further affecting customers bills during the summer months.
These cumulative increases have led to a significant rise in electricity costs for many residents. Some customers reported bills ranging from $600 to $1,300 during peak usage periods.
Tips for Residents to Reduce Electricity Costs
To mitigate the impact of rising electricity rates, residents can adopt several energy-saving practices:
1. Conduct an Energy Audit: Identify areas where your home may be losing energy and implement improvements such as sealing leaks and adding insulation.
SIDE NOTE: We had the 19 windows in our older house replaced and noticed a substantial savings during the summer and this winter. That may not be practical for everyone but if your windows have air coming in around them, this is working against the efficiency of your home. This is who we used and he offers financing.
2. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances: Replace older appliances with ENERGY STAR® certified models that consume less electricity. This is especially true for your HVAC system, water heater and dryer.
3. Utilize Programmable Thermostats: Set your thermostat to adjust temperatures during times when you’re away or sleeping to reduce energy consumption.
4. Implement Energy-Efficient Lighting: Switch to LED bulbs, which use less energy and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional incandescent bulbs.
5. Practice Mindful Energy Use: Turn off lights and unplug devices when not in use, and consider air-drying clothes instead of using a dryer.
For more detailed information on common causes of high power bills and additional energy-saving tips, visit Georgia Power’s official website.
Residents with concerns or questions about utility rates and services can reach out to the Georgia Public Service Commission.
The Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) comprises five elected commissioners who oversee utilities in the state. Below is the contact information for each commissioner:
1. Jason Shaw – Chairman
Phone: (404) 463-6745
Email: gapsc@psc.ga.gov
2. Tim Echols – Vice-Chairman
Phone: (404) 463-0214
Email: gapsc@psc.ga.gov
3. Fitz Johnson – Commissioner
Phone: (404) 657-2020
Email: gapsc@psc.ga.gov
4. Lauren “Bubba” McDonald – Commissioner
Phone: (404) 463-4260
Email: gapsc@psc.ga.gov
Tricia Pridemore – Commissioner
Phone: (404) 657-4574
Email: gapsc@psc.ga.gov
For general inquiries, you can contact the Georgia Public Service Commission at:
Phone: (404) 656-4501
Toll-Free (outside Metro Atlanta): (800) 282-5813
Email: gapsc@psc.ga.gov
Mailing Address:
244 Washington Street, SW
Atlanta, GA 30334-9052
For more information, visit the PSC’s official website.
By staying informed and implementing energy-efficient practices, residents can better manage their electricity usage and potentially reduce the impact of rising utility costs.