Georgia Solar Energy Organizations Encouraged By Georgia Power Plan To Boost Solar Power Purchases

/PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Georgia Solar Energy Association (GSEA) and Georgia Solar Industry Association (GASEIA) appreciate Georgia Power's proposal announced today at the Georgia Public Service Commission to buy more solar power as part of its energy mix.

Georgia Power has filed a petition for approval to purchase 210 MW of solar PV energy projects over the next three years. The projects will be a mix of large, medium and small-scale projects, allowing the utility to purchase solar energy from developments as diverse as solar farms, commercial buildings and homes. Georgia Power will contract to purchase the output for the next 20 years. Georgia Power has an estimated 16,000 MW of electricity generation in the state.

GSEA Executive Director Jessica Moore is closely following the Public Service Commission's deliberations on this proposal.

"We are glad to see Georgia Power recognize solar as a viable, cost-effective method of delivering electricity to its customers. This is a good first step toward increasing Georgia's solar infrastructure," Moore said. "Solar creates jobs, keeps rising energy rates in check and makes Georgia more self-sufficient when it comes to meeting our energy needs."

Georgia is already home to an estimated 20 MW of solar energy installed in a variety of developments across more than 80 counties across the state. Georgia installers and manufacturers are experts when it comes to finalizing solar deals with interested customers.

"We look forward to working with Georgia Power to ensure a straightforward and simple process for interested Georgia businesses and families who want to install and provide solar to Georgia Power," says Pete Corbett, President of GASEIA.

The Georgia Solar Energy Association, comprised of leading experts in solar manufacturing and installation, academia, finance, and the law, is leading the effort in Georgia to promote the economic and environmental benefits of Solar Energy through education, advocacy and industry support.

For more information on the Georgia Solar Energy Association, visit www.gasolar.org.