Georgia Power seeks to increase solar capacity

ATLANTA -- Georgia Power is embarking on plans to increase its renewable energy portfolio in the state by adding 100 megawatts of solar power to the grid.

The company is seeking proposals from solar generating facilities interested in selling between between 1 kilowatt to 3 megawatts of solar power to the company.

It's all part of the utility company's Renewable Energy Development Initiative (REDI).

Georgia Power is looking to sign contracts with prospective facilities to provide solar power to customers at a fixed price for a period of 15 to 35 years.

REDI expands and builds upon the innovation of previous programs that "have helped make Georgia a national renewable leader," a spokesperson for the company said via email.

Submissions for the bids are open until Aug. 15.

Georgia Power's director of renewable development, Wilson Mallard, said the company will review proposals that provide the best value to customers, with winning facilities beginning their contracts in November.

The company's renewable energy efforts come in the backdrop of a recent U.S. Energy and Employment report showing clean energy jobs on the rise in the state.

Georgia added 4,310 jobs in solar last year, despite a nationwide drop, partly blamed on the uncertainty brought about by solar tariffs imposed on imported solar products.

"Through programs and projects developed in coordination with the Georgia PSC, Georgia Power is committed to maintaining a diverse generation portfolio while providing all customers with renewable energy options," a company statement read.

Georgia Power aims to increase its solar energy generation from 970 megawatts of solar capacity to 1,600 megawatts by 2021.

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Georgia solar facts

Georgia ranks 10th nationally in solar capacity.

More than 173,000 homes in the state are powered by solar.

The state has 227 solar companies in manufacturing and installation.

The average cost of installing solar in the state is $17,050.

SOURCE: Solar Energy Industries Association-Georgia Solar

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