Georgia Power is moving forward with modernization efforts across its hydroelectric fleet to support the state’s energy needs and maintain compliance with federal regulations. The company operates 15 hydro generation facilities in Georgia, along with an ownership interest in a 16th facility, resulting in a total of 66 hydroelectric generating units and more than 1,100 megawatts of capacity. Many of these units have been serving the state for over a century.
Hydroelectric plants owned by Georgia Power are licensed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission under the Federal Power Act. In addition to supplying emission-free electricity, these facilities have created recreational opportunities for residents, as several Georgia Power lakes are open to the public for camping and water activities.
The company’s recent modernization plans received approval from the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) through the 2025 Integrated Resource Plan. This plan includes further investments at Tallulah, Yonah, Bartlett’s Ferry, and North Highlands hydro facilities. The upgrades focus on replacing or refurbishing essential equipment such as turbines and generators that have reached or are nearing the end of their operational life.
“For more than a century, Georgians have enjoyed reliable electricity from our hydro plants located on lakes and rivers across the state,” said Rick Anderson, Georgia Power senior vice president and senior production officer for Georgia Power. “As we continue to work with the Georgia PSC to invest in our generation fleet to meet the needs of a growing Georgia, modernizing our hydro facilities helps to ensure continued compliance with federal regulations and our licenses, as well as providing additional longevity for the units and overall value for customers.”
A recent filing with the PSC highlighted completed upgrades at Plant Tugalo near Turnerville, where generator replacements, turbine replacements, and balance of plant system improvements were finalized for all four units. These upgrades follow similar work at Plant Terrora completed previously.
Progress has also been reported at Plants Bartlett’s Ferry, Nacoochee, Oliver, Burton, and Sinclair. Work on Bartlett’s Ferry Unit 1 was finished earlier this year; Units 1-4 at this plant are part of the Chattahoochee hydro group north of Columbus. Modernization at these sites has included generator rewinds and replacement of various plant systems to enhance efficiency and reliability.
To learn more about Georgia Power’s hydro facilities and their role in providing clean energy as part of a diverse power mix, visit https://www.georgiapower.com/company/energy-industry/hydro.html.
