Georgia Power Reaches Tentative 3-Year Rate Freeze Deal

Georgia Power and the Georgia Public Service Commission have reached a tentative agreement to freeze base electricity rates for three years, delaying any base rate increases until at least 2028. The agreement, still subject to approval by the five-member PSC, postpones a planned 2025 rate case and any cost recovery for major storm damage, including $830–$870 million from Hurricane Helene, until 2026. While the freeze provides temporary relief for customers, exceptions remain for 'reasonable and prudent' storm-related costs, which could still lead to future bill increases. Critics argue the deal sidesteps public hearings and does not fully address new energy demands from power-hungry data centers. The PSC has implemented new rules to ensure large customers like data centers contribute fairly to costs. The outcome will shape consumer bills and Georgia Power’s financial operations in the coming years.