Georgia Power Rate Freeze: What It Means for Customers Through 2028
Georgia Power plays a crucial role in powering millions of homes across the state. With electricity rates and energy costs becoming a hot topic lately, recent news about a proposed rate freeze has caught the attention of consumers and businesses alike. This article dives into what the Georgia Power rate freeze means, who it affects, and why it matters for your utility bills.
What Is the Georgia Power Rate Freeze?
In 2025, Georgia Power reached an agreement with the Public Service Commission (PSC) to freeze base electricity rates for the next three years. This means customers will see no increase in their base energy rates until at least 2028. The move, which still requires the final approval of the PSC, is intended to ease concerns after years of rising energy bills.
According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, this "stipulated agreement" puts a temporary halt to further rate hikes and postpones the scheduled rate case. While this deal promises stability, there are important details and exceptions you should know about as a customer.
Exceptions to the Freeze: Are Bills Really Staying Flat?
Despite the freeze, some exceptions could affect your bill. Most notably, Georgia Power has accumulated significant storm-related costs, particularly from Hurricane Helene, which caused more than $800 million in damages. The company plans to ask regulators for permission to recover these costs from customers beginning as early as next year.
The freeze only covers base rates, so if the Public Service Commission allows Georgia Power to add storm recovery charges, bills could rise before 2028. As noted by 11Alive, these additional charges could start appearing in 2026, pending commission review.
Why the Rate Freeze Now?
Georgia Power and the PSC faced mounting pressure from consumers and advocates who were frustrated by a series of recent rate hikes. Since 2022, rate changes have added roughly $43 to the average monthly residential bill. The Rough Draft Atlanta explains that the new agreement also aims to ensure that the rapid growth in large-scale power consumers, like data centers, does not unfairly shift costs to regular customers.
Commissioners said the freeze is meant to protect ratepayers from further increases while balancing the need for the utility to invest in a growing state. Public hearings are scheduled, and two commission seats are up for election, highlighting the importance of public input on Georgia Power’s future pricing.
Is This a Win for Consumers?
The decision to freeze rates was praised by PSC leaders and Georgia Power representatives, who believe it strikes a balance between affordability and the company’s goal to support state growth and reliable service. However, some consumer advocates caution that the deal may limit transparency, as it opts for negotiations over the usual public hearings process.
Critics, including groups like the Southern Environmental Law Center, warn that the relief might be temporary. Storm recovery and the rising demand for power—especially from technology sectors—could mean higher costs are on the horizon.
What Should Customers Do Next?
Stay informed and participate in public hearings about the rate agreement. Watch for announcements from the Public Service Commission and follow credible news sources covering updates to the agreement. If you are concerned about future bill increases or have feedback, now is a great time to engage with local representatives and consumer advocacy groups.
Conclusion
Georgia Power’s proposed rate freeze could bring much-needed stability for customers over the next three years. However, storm recovery costs and the state's rapid growth may still drive up bills before 2028. By staying informed and engaging with the PSC, consumers can ensure their voices are heard as Georgia’s energy future unfolds.