I am writing to express my strong support for Senate Bill 34 and to urge you to advocate for its passage in the Georgia General Assembly. This important piece of legislation will ensure that data centers pay for the costs related to the energy generation required to meet their needs, rather than shifting that burden onto Georgia ratepayers.
Last Friday, Georgia Power filed its 2025 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), and it was exactly what you would expect from an out-of-control predatory monopoly. Georgia Power intends to grow its grid by 50% by 2030—a projection that is unrealistic and primarily serves their profit-driven motives. Historically, Georgia Power has justified expansions, such as at Plant Vogtle, by using inflated growth projections that never materialized. Even data center clients protested the falsified growth numbers in the surprise 2023 IRP filing, yet the Public Service Commission (PSC) has done nothing to address these misleading claims.
If Senate Bill 34 does not pass, Georgia residents will face astronomical electricity bills. Georgia Power is abandoning commitments to retire coal plants at Plant Scherer (Juliette) and Plant Bowen (Euharlee), two of the dirtiest coal plants in the nation in terms of CO2 emissions. Additionally, Georgia Power seeks to expand methane gas infrastructure, a move that benefits multiple Southern Company affiliates but ultimately harms consumers and the environment.
Another major concern is Georgia Power’s request to increase its reserve margin, the percentage of unused capacity. Given that Georgia Power already has the highest reserve margin in the country, this request is excessive and unnecessary.
I respectfully request that you support Senate Bill 34 and encourage your colleagues to do the same. Your leadership and commitment to serving the people of Georgia are greatly appreciated, and I trust that you will consider the voices of your constituents when casting your vote on this critical matter.
Thank you for your time and dedication to our state. I look forward to your support of this important legislation. Please feel free to contact me if you would like to discuss this issue further.
First sent on February 5 by Legislation Station
