Press Releases

For Immediate Release

Oct. 21, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

Georgia Power awarded $160 million from Department of Energy to enhance Georgia’s power grid

Funding focused on innovative approaches to expanding transmission capacity and adding resiliency as company works to meet the energy needs of a growing Georgia

ATLANTA – October 21, 2024 – Georgia Power, the state’s largest electric utility serving 2.7 million customers, has been awarded more than $160 million in funding by the Department of Energy (DOE) through its Grid Deployment Office. As Georgia continues to grow, the company is ensuring that customers have access to clean, safe, reliable, and affordable power, and actively pursued the funding available under the Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program established by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help reduce the costs of necessary investments for the benefit of customers.

Investments under the GRIP Program are intended to enhance grid flexibility, improve the resilience of the power system against extreme weather and ensure American communities have access to affordable, reliable electricity when and where they need it.

“We know our customers depend on us to make the investments needed in the state’s power grid to ensure that we provide the energy resilience and reliability they value and expect, while keeping energy prices affordable,” said Fran Forehand, senior vice president of Transmission for Georgia Power. “Leveraging federal funding and working with the DOE to integrate innovative technology is a great example of how we do this. Thanks to the robust and long-term planning process we have in place with the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC), the investments we’re making in a smarter and more resilient power grid are showing value for our customers during extreme weather events such as Hurricane Helene, and every day.”

Projects funded by the grant will be varied and will benefit communities across Georgia. As Georgia Power continues to transition to cleaner forms of energy and transform its electric grid, investments in the state’s transmission system – the high voltage power lines that transport electricity from generation sources to individual communities – are critical.

Through funding from the GRIP program, Georgia Power will deploy new grid-enhancing technologies including dynamic line rating technology and reconductoring of high voltage power lines. Improved conductor technology can be deployed on existing structures, placed in service much faster than a traditional line build, and can help maximize the amount of power that can be carried through existing transmission lines and in existing rights of way. These investments are important to not only serve existing and new customers but also to help connect a growing amount of clean generation required to serve Georgia’s growing electricity needs. For example, Georgia is a Top 10 state for solar growth and, as renewable generation continues to come online, these investments will unlock additional opportunities for renewable generation deployment within critical locations and disadvantaged communities. The investments also increase energy resilience, including reducing outage frequency and duration.

Increasing collaboration, community and stakeholder engagement, and industry improvement are also key elements of projects under the GRIP Program. As the company invests in its system, Georgia Power plans to share insights, lessons learned and best practices with the broader industry through its work with the Edison Electric Institute (EEI), the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), the Association of Edison Illuminating Companies and others.

Many community organizations assisted the company in its application such as the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), the Georgia Minority Supplier Development Council, Fort Valley State University, the Savannah Economic Development Authority and the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce, among others. Georgia Power is grateful for the support of these organizations during the application process and will continue to solicit input and expertise of these organizations and other stakeholders throughout the state. For example, through the project, Georgia Power will work with IBEW union crews to provide training on the installation and configuration of new types of transmission conductors being installed. The use of these new technologies is expected to provide community benefits such as decreased environmental impacts, increased clean enterprise contracting for businesses majority owned or controlled by underrepresented persons or groups, increased high-quality job creation and job training.

Click here to access the full Georgia Power GRIP fact sheet.

Over the past 10 years, Georgia Power has invested more than $10 billion in strengthening the power grid through programs and initiatives approved by the Georgia PSC. Georgia Power continued this ongoing work on projects throughout Georgia communities in 2023 resulting in a strong year for reliability performance. Read more here.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visitwww.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For Immediate Release

Oct. 17, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

Georgia Power offers Installment Payment Plans for customers following Hurricaen Helene

Enrollment in latest customer assistance initiative open through November 30

ATLANTA – October 17, 2024 – Georgia Power announced today its latest initiative to support customers as Georgia continues to recover and rebuild following Hurricane Helene – flexible Installment Payment Plans that allow customers to pay their current account balance over multiple months. The company previously announced efforts to extend and expand customer assistance options following the historic hurricane, with disconnections suspended, eligible late fees waived, and collection activities paused for residential and business customers through December 15, 2024. Read more here

Under this initiative, eligible customers may choose to pay their balance over a period of 2, 4 or 6 months in equal installments which will be added to future payments. Existing late fees will not be included and, once an installment payment plan is established, customers will need to make timely payments to prevent any collection activities. Georgia Power encourages customers to continue paying their bills on their usual billing cycle and avoid falling behind.

Enrollment for Installment Payment Plans is available through November 30, 2024. Customers can enroll online by logging into their account, and visiting the Payment Arrangements page, or through the company’s automated phone system at 877-403-7149. If enrolling via the automated phone system, customers will be asked to provide the phone number and social security number associated with their account to verify eligibility. Additional information including a step-by-step guide and frequently asked questions, is available at GeorgiaPower.com/HurricaneSupport.

Georgia Power’s response to the most destructive hurricane in its history involved more than 20,000 personnel, including Georgia Power’s full workforce as well as crews from dozens of other companies around the country. The company safely and quickly restored power to more than 1.5 million customers following the storm. Hurricane Helene spared virtually no part of the state and severely impacted areas such as Augusta, Savannah, Valdosta and many other communities.

The Southern Company system, including Georgia Power, also continues to coordinate and contribute to restoration and relief efforts following Hurricane Helene. On October 4, multiple charitable foundations across the system pledged $3 million to support the recovery effort. Read more here.

Programs to Help Customers Manage Energy Costs, Obtain Assistance

Georgia Power partners with nonprofits, community and faith-based organizations to offer assistance programs to those in need year-round. Popular programs include the longstanding Project SHARE program with the Salvation Army, as well as the recently expanded Income-Qualified Discount, which may amount to $33.50 per month for qualified customers. Other programs include Energy Assistance for Savings & Efficiency (EASE), and continued partnerships with community action agencies across Georgia that offer services such as the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), emergency assistance, home weatherization and more. Georgia Power encourages customers to use online tools such as My Power Usage to track and manage energy use, and visit GeorgiaPower.com/MyEnergy to explore all of the tools and resources available from the company to help predict and lower their bill.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For Immediate Release

Oct. 17, 2024

CONTACT: Atlanta Metro Chamber of Commerce
Abby Turano, aturano@macoc.com

Atlanta Metro Chamber Supports Georgia Constitutional Amendment No. 2

Georgia voters can approve changes to tax appeal process In General Election

ATLANTA (September 12, 2024) — The Metro Atlanta Chamber (MAC) advocates for a pro-business tax climate, working to ensure that Georgia remains the top state for business. During the 2024 legislative session, MAC successfully led the effort to advocate for the passage of legislation amending Georgia’s Constitution to transform the Georgia Tax Tribunal into a court to resolve tax disputes more quickly and fairly. This constitutional amendment will appear on the ballot for Georgia voters to consider in November.

“Replacing the Georgia Tax Tribunal with the Georgia Tax Court will provide Georgians with the operational clarity and certainty they need when resolving disputes with the Georgia Department of Revenue,” said Katie Kirkpatrick, president & CEO of the Metro Atlanta Chamber. “It will help Georgians resolve important business cases faster, simplify government, and save taxpayers time and money.”

If approved by voters during the November 2024 General Election, the Georgia Tax Court will streamline the tax appeal process for taxpayers across the state by no longer requiring cases to first go through the Fulton County Superior Court. Instead, a taxpayer would appeal a Georgia Tax Court decision directly to the Georgia Court of Appeals.

MAC remains committed to creating a more efficient and equitable tax system for all Georgia taxpayers. This update streamlines Georgia’s tax appeal process by making it more accessible and fairer for businesses and individuals. The Chamber encourages voters to support Constitutional Amendment #2 during the 2024 General Election in November to ensure Georgia remains a leading state for economic growth and business success. To learn more, visit GeorgiaQTA.com.

For more information on MAC’s broader policy and advocacy efforts, visit www.macpolicy.com.

About Metro Atlanta Chamber:

The Metro Atlanta Chamber (MAC) serves as a catalyst for a more prosperous and vibrant region. We work to advance economic growth and improve metro Atlanta’s quality of life across the 29-county metro Atlanta region. Our charge is to unleash Atlanta’s ambition, and we do this by growing, advocating and promoting the region’s economy, talent and community. MAC expands the region’s thriving economy, advocates for a competitive business climate and elevates metro Atlanta’s story on a global scale to ensure that this continues to be a region that rises as one. For more information, visit www.MetroAtlantaChamber.com.

For Immediate Release

Oct. 8, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

Georgia Power monitoring, prepared to respond to effects of Hurricane Milton in Georgia

Company is coordinating with state and local emergency partners in wake of Helene recovery, Georgia Power campgrounds at Lakes Oconee and Harding available for evacuees

ATLANTA – October 8, 2024 – Georgia Power is monitoring the track of Hurricane Milton in the Gulf of Mexico and, with restoration efforts from Hurricane Helene nearly completed, the company is now preparing crews to safely and quickly respond to the latest severe weather threat. While the path of the storm may change in the coming days, current forecasts could bring damaging winds and heavy rain to South Georgia as early as Thursday.

Georgia Power is in touch with its response partners, including local and state governments, as well as other regional utilities. The company is maintaining available crews and resources in Central and South Georgia to respond to potential impacts from Milton.

Georgia Power Campgrounds Open for Evacuees

For those evacuating the coast from Hurricane Milton, three Georgia Power campgrounds are open at Lake Oconee in East-Central Georgia and one Georgia Power campground at Lake Harding, near Columbus. Normal campsite fees will be waived during the evacuation. Lawrence Shoals, Old Salem and Parks Ferry are at Lake Oconee. Blanton Creek is at Lake Harding. Sites offer full-service campgrounds, primitive campsites, restrooms, laundry facilities, day-use picnic areas, grills, etc. Campgrounds have a limited number of handicapped accessible sites. To check specific campsite availability and to register, call the Campground Information Line 855-607-6462 or visit www.gplakes.com.

The Mutual Assistance Network

Georgia Power is part of a mutual assistance network consisting of dozens of utilities from around the country. As part of this partnership, Georgia Power line crews assist other utilities when service to their customers is interrupted due to severe weather, but only after service is restored to its customers in Georgia. The company is also able to tap into reinforcements when needed to restore power quickly to Georgia customers, as it recently did with Hurricane Helene, fielding a response team 20,000 strong. The company also has access to resources from its sister power companies in Alabama and Mississippi.

Staying informed is most important during an emergency situation. Georgia Power has developed multiple ways for customers to stay connected.

Tools You Can Use to Stay Connected & Informed

Outage Alerts – Customers subscribed to our free Georgia Power Outage Alert service will receive personalized notifications and updates via text message. Check that your contact number is up to date to receive the latest information.
Outage & Storm Center – Available at www.GeorgiaPower.com/Storm, customers can visit this site to check their contact information is updated to receive Outage Alerts, report and check the status of outages, and access useful safety tips and information. Customers can also report and check the status of an outage 24 hours a day by contacting Georgia Power at 888-891-0938.
Outage Map – Housed within the Outage & Storm Center, Georgia Power’s interactive Outage Map provides near real-time information, allowing users to see where outages are occurring across the state and track estimated restoration times.
Georgia Power Mobile App – Download the Georgia Power mobile app for Apple and Androiddevices to access storm and outage information on the go.
@GeorgiaPower on X (Twitter) – Follow @GeorgiaPower on X for storm tips, outage updates, customer service and more.

Safety Tips – Before, During and After a Storm

Before a Storm: Stay aware, heed advice from officials, and check the weather forecast before heading outdoors. Check your emergency kit and family plan. Unplug major appliances and charge cell phones in case you lose power.
During a Storm: Take safe shelter inside a sturdy building away from windows and doors. Avoid contact with conductors of electricity – appliances, metal objects and water.
After a Storm: Never touch any downed or low-hanging wire, including telephone or TV wires that touch a power line. Never pull tree limbs off of power lines yourself or enter areas with debris or downed trees as downed power lines may be buried in wreckage. Customers should call 911 or Georgia Power immediately if they see a fallen or low-hanging power line.

Georgia Power is prepared to respond to outages safely and as quickly as weather conditions allow.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For Immediate Release

Oct. 8, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Peanut Commission
Maddie Frost, 229-386-3470, maddie@gapeanuts.com

Georgia Peanut Bank Week celebrates peanut harvest Oct. 21-25, 2024

Georgia Peanut Commission and Georgia Bankers Association unite to promote peanuts

TIFTON, Ga. – The Georgia Peanut Commission and Georgia Bankers Association will join forces Oct. 21-25, 2024, to promote the 48th annual Georgia Peanut Bank Week. Financial institutions and local banks across the state will offer a tribute to Georgia’s 4,000 peanut farm families and the sustainability they provide to Georgia’s state and local economies.

The 2024 theme, “Hold yourself accountable…Eat Georgia Peanuts,” will showcase the affordable and nutritious peanut. Recent research studies indicate and highlight regularly eating peanuts can reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease and cancer. Individuals can reap these benefits by taking one daily ounce (about a handful) of peanuts or 2 tablespoons of peanut butter.

“We’re excited to continue Georgia Peanut Bank Week for the forty-eighth year and salute peanut farmers and the nutritional benefits of peanuts,” says Joe Boddiford, chairman of the Georgia Peanut Commission. “This promotion is a great way to highlight all peanuts have to offer our communities across the state.”

The annual promotion will be taking place during an opportune time of the year: peanut harvest. In 2023, Georgia peanuts were planted on more than 770,000 acres throughout Georgia and accounted for 53 percent of peanut production in the United States. Peanuts were planted in 77 of Georgia’s 159 counties with an average yield of more than 4,000 pounds per acre.

The Georgia Peanut Commission urges everyone to stop by their local participating bank or financial institution during Georgia Peanut Bank Week to learn more about Georgia peanuts. For more information, visit the GPC website at www.gapeanuts.com.

For Immediate Release

Oct. 7, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

Georgia Power extends, expands customer assistance programs following Hurricane Helene

Company continues suspension of disconnections, waives late fees and pauses collection activities for customers through December 15

ATLANTA – October 7, 2024 – As the devastation from Hurricane Helene became apparent in the days following the historic storm, Georgia Power moved quickly to suspend disconnections as emergency response efforts ramped up. The company announced today that it has further extended and expanded customer assistance programs with disconnections suspended, late fees waived, and overall collection activities paused for residential and business customers through at least December 15, 2024.

“Our commitment to customers goes beyond reconnecting power following a storm of this magnitude – we’re focused on helping many of our neighbors as they essentially rebuild their lives and communities,” said Latanza Adjei, senior vice president of Customer Experience for Georgia Power. “We encourage customers to continue paying their bills on their usual billing cycle and avoid falling behind. However, we recognize that times are challenging for many Georgians even without the impacts of Helene and we want to do all we can to support them. Every Customer Experience team member is dedicated to working with customers who may need assistance to help find a solution that works best for them.”

Georgia Power’s response to the most destructive hurricane in its history involved more than 20,000 personnel, including Georgia Power’s full workforce as well as crews from dozens of other companies around the country. As of October 7, the company has safely restored power to more than 1.5 million customers, or 99% of all impacted customers, following the storm. Hurricane Helene spared virtually no part of the state and severely impacted areas such as Augusta, Savannah, Valdosta and many other communities.

Programs to Help Customers Manage Energy Costs, Obtain Assistance

Georgia Power partners with nonprofits, community and faith-based organizations to offer assistance programs to those in need year-round. Popular initiatives include the longstanding Project SHARE program with the Salvation Army, as well as the recently expanded Income-Qualified Discount, which may amount to $33.50 per month for qualified customers. Other programs include Energy Assistance for Savings & Efficiency (EASE), and continued partnerships with community action agencies across Georgia that offer services such as the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), emergency assistance, home weatherization and more. Georgia Power encourages customers to use online tools such as My Power Usage to track and manage energy use, and visit GeorgiaPower.com/MyEnergy to explore all of the tools and resources available from the company to help predict and lower their bill.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For Immediate Release

Oct. 5, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

Power restored to 95%-plus of Georgia Power customers impacted by Hurricane Helene

Crews managing final intensive restorative efforts in hardest hit areas and will remain in the field until all customers who can accept power are reconnected

ATLANTA – October 5, 2024 – Georgia Power has restored power to 1.3 million+ customers following Hurricane Helene – more than 95% of all customers who were impacted by the most destructive hurricane in the company’s history. Intensive restoration efforts remain underway to reconnect customers in the hardest hit areas of the state, notably Augusta where 80% of impacted customers had been reconnected as of Saturday morning and work was ongoing to reconnect the approximately 50,000 customers who remained without power. While damage and treacherous conditions remain, teams are working around the clock and will remain in the field until every customer who can accept power is reconnected.

“Our work isn’t done until every customer who can receive power has it – we want our customers to know that commitment is shared by everyone on our team,” said Kim Greene, chairman, president and CEO of Georgia Power. “We have matched the devastation of Hurricane Helene with an army of thousands of lineworkers, who continue to work through fallen trees and miles of broken power poles and downed lines to bring light back to Georgia homes and businesses. I’m grateful for their tireless work to reconnect so many customers so quickly, and the continued resilience and patience of our customers and communities.”

Hurricane Helene caused widespread destruction across the state of Georgia – from Atlanta’s northern suburbs, to Columbus, to Albany, to Valdosta and Savannah. Virtually no part of the state was spared by the storm. More than 20,000 personnel have contributed to the company’s rapid response to the hurricane and remain engaged with crews working their way through the power system efficiently and effectively to repair extreme damage and restore power to the most customers with every repair made. In many cases, the damage to infrastructure has been so severe that teams are essentially rebuilding sections of the grid and not just repairing specific elements.

Georgia Power is a part of the Southern Company system, which continues to coordinate and contribute to restoration and relief efforts following Hurricane Helene. On Friday, multiple charitable foundations across the system pledged $3 million to support the recovery effort. Read more here.

“As Georgia continues to rebuild in the weeks and months ahead, we know that our customers will continue to need support. We are actively working with community leaders across the state, and identifying opportunities for us to provide assistance and demonstrate our commitment to being a citizen wherever we serve,” added Greene.

Updated damage estimates illustrating the extensive destruction of Hurricane Helene include:

8,300+ power poles that must be repaired or replaced
21,000+ spans of wire damaged equivalent to approximately 1,000 miles
2,000+ transformers damaged
3,200+ trees on power lines that must be removed or addressed to restore power

Restoration Status & Reconnection

Georgia Power appreciates the importance of accurate information for customers as they make plans for their families following this historic hurricane. As the company anticipated and announced before the arrival of the storm, restoration efforts are taking multiple days in many areas due to the extensive damage from Helene. Georgia Power continues to post updated estimated restoration times (ERTs) for communities on its Outage Map.

The company will continue to post updated information throughout the remainder of the restoration process and will make every effort to return power to customers sooner than expected. However, as new damage in previously inaccessible areas becomes apparent, restoration efforts may take longer than originally estimated. Customers are encouraged to check the Outage Map often for the latest information and not rely on possibly inaccurate details they may see from non-company sources.

The company currently estimates that up to 8,000 customer homes may not be able to be safely reconnected due electric service entrance damage. The company cannot repair or restore power to homes with damaged service entrances and encourages customers to call 1-877-749-3931 to request a service entrance repair or contact a certified electrician in their area. Read more here.

Preparation, Industry Support Key to Response

Georgia Power monitored the path of Hurricane Helene for more than a week prior to Hurricane Helene entering Georgia. As part of its preparations, Georgia Power mobilized additional staff from across the industry to respond. Mobilized crews across the state pre-positioned restoration workers, equipment, and supplies near areas of anticipated impact including extra transformers, poles, cables, wires and other equipment. Hurricane Helene had a statewide impact and Georgia Power matched that with a statewide response, including engagement of every Georgia Power crew at the beginning of the storm and thousands of additional lineworkers from outside of Georgia. All this is part of advance planning and strategy to allow the company to restore power more quickly and efficiently for its customers as soon as weather conditions allow.

The company continues to utilize additional resources from outside of its system including support from Alabama Power, Mississippi Power and dozens of other companies. The response force currently engaged is larger than the company’s response to other major hurricanes including Michael, Irma and Zeta.

Georgia Power is also a member of a nationwide mutual assistance network, which consists of hundreds of utilities from around the country. Georgia Power has proactively mobilized crews from dozens of companies from states including California, Florida, Indiana, Nevada, New Jersey, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania and Texas, as well as Canada. The company continues to acquire additional outside resources to aid in response.

As always, the company encourages customers to keep safety first following Hurricane Helene:

Watch for Georgia Power crews working across the state. If driving, move over one lane for utility vehicles stopped on the side of the road – it’s the law in Georgia.
Watch for downed wires. Downed power lines may be hidden by debris or fallen trees.
Never touch any downed wire or attempt to remove tree branches from power lines – it can kill.
Don’t step in standing water or saturated ground where downed lines may be present. They could be electrified.
Avoid chain link fences. They may be electrified by a downed line out of sight and conduct electricity over great distances.
Never attempt repairs to electric service connections. Customers should also note that if their home, including the meter box or mast/connection point, is severely damaged repairs may need to be made by an electrician before Georgia Power can reconnect power.

Tools You Can Use to Stay Connected & Informed

Outage Alerts – Customers subscribed to our free Georgia Power Outage Alert service will receive personalized notifications and updates via text message. Check that your contact number is up to date to receive the latest information.
Outage & Storm Center – Available at www.GeorgiaPower.com/Storm, customers can visit this site to check their contact information is updated to receive Outage Alerts, report and check the status of outages, and access useful safety tips and information. Customers can also report and check the status of an outage 24 hours a day by contacting Georgia Power at 888-891-0938.
Outage Map – Housed within the Outage & Storm Center, Georgia Power’s interactive Outage Map provides near real-time information, allowing users to see where outages are occurring across the state and track estimated restoration times.
Georgia Power Mobile App – Download the Georgia Power mobile app for Apple and Android devices to access storm and outage information on the go.
@GeorgiaPower on X (Twitter) – Follow @GeorgiaPower on X for storm tips, outage updates, customer service and more.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For immediate release

Oct. 4, 2024

CONTACT: Kim Broun
770-260-6990
kim.broun@georgiaemc.com
Craig Heighton
craig.heighton@gatransmission.com

EMCs Continue Work to Rebuild Distribution Network in South and East Georgia

TUCKER, Ga. – EMCs are currently reporting approximately 122,700 outages primarily in South Central, Southeast and East Georgia. The peak number of outages caused by Hurricane Helene was 435,000, making it one of most destructive storms on record for EMCs in Georgia. EMCs currently estimate that within two weeks, 85% of all outages will be restored to locations that can take power.

At the height of the storm, 117 high-voltage transmission lines serving EMCs were offline, with multiple segments damaged along each, as well as nearly 200 electrical substations. Georgia Transmission has made significant progress toward restoring service to these systems and final repairs are imminent. Their teams will now transition their focus to supporting member EMCs with their continued efforts to restore the local distribution systems, until every EMC member has their lights back on.

The pace of member restoration on the distribution side will naturally slow down at this stage, as EMC linemen face a number of unique challenges:

Several EMCs are rebuilding as much as 100 percent of their distribution system, while others are repairing and replacing significant portions of their network as well.
EMCs have more than doubled their workforce with thousands of additional linemen, contractors and support personnel. Crews have and will continue to arrive in affected areas from out of state and from the unaffected and restored portions of Georgia throughout each day.
The currently affected EMCs serve enormous land areas and have far fewer members per mile of line (an average of five) compared with investor-owned utilities (average of 34) and publicly owned utilities, or municipal, (with an average of 48, nearly five times that of an electric co-op).
EMCs report historically high numbers of downed trees and power poles, surpassing previous records at many EMCs. Linemen are replacing thousands of broken poles—which requires as much as four hours per pole in ideal working conditions.

Several base camps are set up across the affected areas for EMC linemen, providing food, housing and laundry services to meet the needs of lineworkers. These set-ups are continuously expanding as additional linemen and support personnel join the effort. EMC crews are currently working alongside linemen from 12 other states including Pennsylvania, Indiana, Illinois, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Missouri, Texas, Arkansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia and Alabama. Additional crews from Florida will be arriving as soon as their restoration concludes.

Outage Information:
A map showing current outages by region, updated every 15 minutes, can be found at http://www.georgiaemc.com/outages. To report power outages and gain more detailed outage and restoration updates, customers should contact their local EMC provider.

Electricity for Medical Needs:
EMCs are doing everything possible to restore power, but for those that require electricity for medical needs, EMCs continue to recommend temporary relocation. If relocation is not an option, EMCs recommend securing a generator from a friend or neighbor or seeking help at a local medical facility.

Safety Tips:
Safety continues to be a top priority in the restoration process. We recommend individuals keep a safe distance from crews working and stay away from downed power lines. Those that are using a generator as a temporary power source should follow the recommended generator safety tips, listed below, for the duration of the outage.

Generator Usage and Safety

If using a generator, follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions and all safety guidelines.
Never operate a generator, grill, or camp stove indoors, such as in your home, crawlspace, basement, or garage.
Never connect generators to another power source, such as power lines. The reverse flow of electricity or “backfeed” can electrocute an unsuspecting utility worker.

About Georgia EMC:
Georgia EMC is the statewide trade association representing the state’s 41 electric cooperatives, Oglethorpe Power Corp., Georgia Transmission Corp. and Georgia System Operations Corp. Collectively, Georgia’s customer-owned co-ops provide electricity and related services to 4.4 million people, nearly half of Georgia’s population, across 73 percent of the state’s land area. To learn more, visit www.georgiaemc.com and follow us on Facebook and X.

About Georgia Transmission:
Georgia Transmission Corp., a not-for-profit cooperative owned by 38 Electric Membership Corporations (EMCs), owns more than 5,000 miles of high-voltage transmission lines and more than 780 substations. These facilities deliver power to Georgia’s EMCs providing electricity to more than 4.5 million Georgians. For more information, visit gatransmission.com.

For Immediate Release

Oct. 4, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

Georgia Power, Southern Company and Southern Company Gas charitable foundations donate $3 million for Hurricane Helene relief

ATLANTA – October 4, 2024 – The Georgia Power, Southern Company and Southern Company Gas charitable foundations will collectively donate $3 million to aid Hurricane Helene relief efforts. The historic, destructive storm has devastated communities across the Southeast. As the companies continue to rebuild and restore service to impacted communities, they stand together in the effort to help those communities affected by the widespread storm and flood damage.

The Georgia Power Foundation will donate $1 million to local organizations serving Georgia’s impacted communities.
The Southern Company Foundation is donating $1 million to the American Red Cross to aid in their relief efforts across the Southeast. Additionally, the company will match up to $500,000 in employee donations to the American Red Cross.
The Southern Company Gas Foundation will donate $500,000 to support local communities in recovery efforts throughout the state of Georgia through its Atlanta Gas Light Foundation.

In addition to helping customers, neighbors and communities affected by Hurricane Helene, the companies are providing emergency support to hundreds of employees impacted by the storm – many of whom are currently engaged in Georgia Power’s statewide restoration efforts.

“During times of crisis like Hurricane Helene, we are able to tap the full strength of the Southern Company system to support our communities and colleagues,” said Kim Greene, chairman, president and CEO of Georgia Power. “At Georgia Power, our employees are citizens wherever we serve every day, and this commitment goes into overdrive when we’re coming together to overcome extreme challenges. Alongside all Southern Company leadership, I am so inspired by the resilience of our communities and grateful to everyone engaged in this historic response. Our thoughts and prayers remain with all the families and customers impacted, and all our teams who remain on the ground right now responding.”

Georgia Power has restored power to more than 1.2 million customers following Hurricane Helene – more than 90% of all customers impacted by the most destructive hurricane in the company’s history. The company has 20,000+ personnel engaged in response – including integrated teams from within the Southern Company family. Progress is ongoing and the company expects to reach 95% total restoration by Saturday.

Crews continue to work their way through the power system efficiently and effectively to safely repair extreme damage and restore power to the most customers with every repair made. Efforts have further intensified to repair damage and restore service in the hardest hit areas with crews working around the clock in communities such as Augusta, Savannah and Valdosta.

In many cases, the damage to infrastructure is so severe that teams are essentially rebuilding sections of the grid and not just repairing specific elements. While damage and treacherous conditions remain, teams are working safely, efficiently and will remain in the field until every customer who can accept power is restored.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

About Southern Company

Southern Company (NYSE: SO) is America’s premier energy company, with 46,000 megawatts of generating capacity and 1,500 billion cubic feet of combined natural gas consumption and throughput volume serving 9 million customers through its subsidiaries. The company provides clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy through electric operating companies in four states, natural gas distribution companies in seven states, a competitive generation company serving wholesale customers across America and a nationally recognized provider of customized energy solutions, as well as fiber optics and wireless communications. Southern Company brands are known for excellent customer service, high reliability and affordable prices that are below the national average. Through an industry-leading commitment to innovation, Southern Company and its subsidiaries are inventing America’s energy future by developing the full portfolio of energy resources, including carbon-free nuclear, 21st century coal, natural gas, renewables and energy efficiency, and creating new products and services for the benefit of customers. Southern Company has been named by the U.S. Department of Defense and G.I. Jobs magazine as a top military employer, recognized among the Top 50 Companies for Diversity by DiversityInc, listed by Black Enterprise magazine as one of the 40 Best Companies for Diversity and designated a Top Employer for Hispanics by Hispanic Network. The company has earned a National Award of Nuclear Science and History from the National Atomic Museum Foundation for its leadership and commitment to nuclear development and is continually ranked among the top energy companies in Fortune’s annual World’s Most Admired Electric and Gas Utility rankings. Visit our website at www.southerncompany.com.

About Southern Company Gas
Southern Company Gas is a wholly owned subsidiary of Atlanta-based Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Southern Company Gas serves approximately 4.4 million natural gas utility customers through its regulated distribution companies in four states and more than 600,000 retail customers through its companies that market natural gas. Other nonutility businesses include investments in interstate pipelines, asset management for natural gas wholesale customers and ownership and operation of natural gas storage facilities. For more information, visit southerncompanygas.com.

For Immediate Release

Oct. 4, 2024

Georgia Farm Bureau | Georgia Foundation for Agriculture
CONTACT: Kenny Burgamy
k d b ur g a m y @g f b .o r g
w w w .s upport g e org i a f a rm e r s.org

Ga. Ag Partners Launch Hurricane Relief Fund for Farmers Impacted by Hurricane Helene

The Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA), in a partnership with the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture (GFA) and in support by the Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB), has launched the Weathered But Strong: Hurricane Relief Fund to aid farmers and ranchers facing devastating losses from Hurricane Helene. The fund aims to raise $1 million by December to provide direct financial aid to those impacted by the storm.

The Weathered But Strong: Hurricane Relief Fund is a cross-industry initiative designed to assist Georgia’s farmers with recovery efforts, including damages to crops, livestock, and farm infrastructure. The campaign emphasizes resilience within the agricultural community and collaboration across the sector to ensure a strong recovery for the state’s farming community.

“The Weathered But Strong Hurricane Relief Fund is a perfect example of Georgians helping Georgians in their time of need, and we’re proud to work hand-in-hand with Georgia Foundation for Agriculture and all our industry partners to get much-need relief to our farmers and producers,” said Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper. “The damage Helene caused to our agricultural community is devastating for farm families across our state, and I strongly encourage anyone who is able to donate, to do so through the Weather But Strong Hurricane Relief Fund.

The fund will help address essential needs by covering gaps left by other forms of assistance, for efforts like repairing fences, restoring livestock operations, rebuilding essential structures, and eventually providing financial aid to those impacted.

In Coffee County, farmers Danny and Angie O’Steen witnessed the destruction of cotton and timber on their land.

“The kind of loss we saw all over Coffee County is incalculable and catastrophic,” Angie O’Steen remarked after seeing the damage to farms around the area.

Danny O’Steen added, “This was a storm of a lifetime that couldn’t have come at a worse time for Georgia farmers as they were starting the harvest season.”

Visit www.SupportGeorgiaFarmers.org to donate online or download the forms for check contributions.

The Weathered But Strong Hurricane Relief Fund is made possible by the Georgia Department of Agriculture and the following agricultural organizations:

Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College
Dickey Farms
Fort Valley State University Cooperative Extension
Georgia 4-H
Georgia 4-H Foundation
Georgia Agribusiness Council
Georgia Agricultural Education
Georgia Association of Conservation Districts
Georgia Cattlemen’s Association
Georgia Citrus Association
Georgia Cotton Commission
Georgia Department of Agriculture
Georgia EMC
Georgia Farm Bureau
Georgia Farm Bureau
Georgia Federal-State Inspection Service
Georgia FFA
Georgia FFA Alumni
Georgia FFA Camps-Covington and Fort Valley
Georgia FFA Foundation
Georgia Forestry Association
Georgia Forestry Commission
Georgia Forestry Foundation
Georgia Foundation For Agriculture
Georgia Green Industry Association
Georgia Milk Producers
Georgia Peanut Commission
Georgia Pecan Growers Association
Georgia Poultry Federation
Georgia Vocational Agriculture Teachers Association
Georgia Wine Producers
Georgia Young Farmers Association
Lamar Pecan Co
Magnolia Loom
Stuckey’s Corporation
Sunbelt Ag Expo
The Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association
The Georgia Pecan Commission
University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
University of Georgia Cooperative Extension

The Georgia Foundation for Agriculture is Georgia Farm Bureau’s nonprofit (501(c)(3)), and contributions to the Hurricane Relief Fund are fully tax-deductible. Donors will receive a receipt for their records. 100% of funds donated will go directly to farmers and ranchers.

About the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture

The Georgia Foundation for Agriculture is a 501(c)(3) organization that prepares the next generation of Georgia leaders for success in agriculture and also supports programs that address the challenges facing agriculture and works to preserve the future of farming. Donations to the Weathered But Strong: Hurricane Relief Fund go to the Georgia Foundation for Agriculture and are tax-deductible under IRS 170(b)(A)(VI). Learn more at GAFoundationAg.org.

For Immediate Release

Oct. 3, 2024

CONTACT: University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Cassie Ann Kiggen
cakiggen@uga.edu

UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences 2024 Almanac Now Available

The University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences has announced that the CAES 2024 Almanac is officially live – both in print and online.

This year’s Almanac is filled with 30+ stories about science in service of humanity and the environment. From features on how our research is innovating Georgia agriculture, profiles on familiar alumni faces, news on various impactful state and international programs, and much more, the 2024 Almanac is a testament to the groundbreaking work and innovative research happening at CAES.

Dive into these stories and learn more about the work that we have been doing on behalf of the great state of Georgia, and we thank you for your continued support.

For Immediate Release

Oct. 3, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

Power restored to 90% of Georgia Power customers impacted by Hurricane Helene across the state

1.2 million+ customers reconnected following most destructive storm in company’s history; Intense restoration in hardest-hit areas underway with personnel working around the clock

ATLANTA – October 3, 2024 – Georgia Power has restored power to more than 1.2 million customers following Hurricane Helene – more than 90% of all customers impacted by the most destructive hurricane in the company’s history. Progress is ongoing and the company expects to reach 95% total restoration by this Saturday.

More than 20,000 personnel remain engaged in the company’s response. Rapid response to Hurricane Helene has been possible through the implementation of new “smart grid” technologies and the quick work of pre-positioned teams who were ready to respond as soon as conditions were safe to do so. Over the last few days, efforts have further intensified to repair damage and restore service in the hardest hit areas with crews converging on communities across coastal, eastern and southern Georgia.

Crews continue to work their way through the power system efficiently and effectively to repair extreme damage and restore power to the most customers with every repair made. In many cases, the damage to infrastructure is so severe that teams are essentially rebuilding parts of the grid and not just repairing specific elements. While damage and treacherous conditions remain, teams are working around the clock and will remain in the field until every customer who can accept power is restored.

As of midday Thursday, the company has restored power to 95 percent of impacted customers in the Savannah area, and approximately 85 percent of impacted customers in the Valdosta and Macon areas. Augusta remains the most heavily impacted by Hurricane Helene with extensive flooding and tree damage. Currently, approximately 65 percent of customers impacted by the storm in the Augusta area have now been reconnected and teams continue to work around the clock to reconnect all customers.

Updated damage estimates illustrating the extensive destruction of Hurricane Helene include:

8,300+ power poles that must be repaired or replaced
21,000+ spans of wire damaged equivalent to approximately 1,000 miles
1,600+ transformers damaged
3,200+ trees on power lines that must be removed or addressed to restore power

Restoration Status Being Regularly Updated

Preparation, Industry Support Key to Response

As always, the company encourages customers to keep safety first following Hurricane Helene:

Watch for Georgia Power crews working across the state. If driving, move over one lane for utility vehicles stopped on the side of the road – it’s the law in Georgia.
Watch for downed wires. Downed power lines may be hidden by debris or fallen trees.
Never touch any downed wire or attempt to remove tree branches from power lines – it can kill.
Don’t step in standing water or saturated ground where downed lines may be present. They could be electrified.
Avoid chain link fences. They may be electrified by a downed line out of sight and conduct electricity over great distances.
Never attempt repairs to electric service connections. Customers should also note that if their home, including the meter box or mast/connection point, is severely damaged repairs may need to be made by an electrician before Georgia Power can reconnect power.

Tools You Can Use to Stay Connected & Informed

Outage Alerts –Customers subscribed to our free Georgia Power Outage Alert service will receive personalized notifications and updates via text message. Check that your contact number is up to date to receive the latest information.
Outage & Storm Center – Available at www.GeorgiaPower.com/Storm, customers can visit this site to check their contact information is updated to receive Outage Alerts, report and check the status of outages, and access useful safety tips and information. Customers can also report and check the status of an outage 24 hours a day by contacting Georgia Power at 888-891-0938.
Outage Map– Housed within the Outage & Storm Center, Georgia Power’s interactive Outage Map provides near real-time information, allowing users to see where outages are occurring across the state and track estimated restoration times.
Georgia Power Mobile App– Download the Georgia Power mobile app for Apple and Android devices to access storm and outage information on the go.
@GeorgiaPower on X (Twitter)– Follow @GeorgiaPower on X for storm tips, outage updates, customer service and more.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For immediate release

Oct. 2, 2024

CONTACT: Kim Broun
770-260-6990
kim.broun@georgiaemc.com
Anne Lerner
anne.lerner@gatransmission.com

EMCs See Progress as Rebuilding Efforts Continue

TUCKER, Ga. – EMCs are currently reporting approximately 162,000 outages primarily in South Central, Southeast and East Georgia, down from a peak of 435,000. The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association reports Hurricane Helene knocked out power to an estimated 1.25 million electric cooperative members and is proving to be one of the most consequential storms in the 87-year history of electric cooperatives.

The extensive rebuild and restoration process can be attributed largely to the type of damage caused by Hurricane Helene, which made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane with a path 500 miles wide. The high winds caused catastrophic damage to the high-voltage transmission lines and electrical substations that provide electricity to the local EMCs, which distribute it to customers through smaller lines.

Georgia Transmission reports there are currently 26 substations and approximately 20 high-voltage transmission lines out of service. From the peak damage at the height of the storm, 80% of transmission has now been restored. The remaining transmission assets are in some of the hardest hit areas of our state. Crews have been met with immense flooding and entire trees down on multiple sections of the same transmission lines, making restoration a challenge.

As EMC linemen work to rebuild distribution lines, they face a number of unique challenges:

Several EMCs are rebuilding as much as 100 percent of their distribution system, while others are repairing and replacing significant portions of their network as well.
EMCs have more than doubled their workforce with thousands of additional linemen and additional support personnel in response to Hurricane Helene. Crews continue to arrive in affected areas from out of state and from restored portions of Georgia every day.
The currently affected EMCs serve enormous land areas and have far fewer members per mile of line (an average of 5) compared with investor-owned utilities (average of 34,) and publicly owned utilities, or municipal, (with an average of 48, nearly five times that of an electric co-op).
EMCs report historically high numbers of downed trees and power poles, surpassing previous records at many EMCs. Linemen are replacing thousands of broken poles—which requires as much as four hours per pole.

For these reasons, EMCs caution it will be an extended restoration process in areas that took the brunt of the storm, possibly a week or more before full restoration is complete. In addition to crews from fellow co-ops on the western side of the state, EMC crews are currently working alongside linemen from Texas, Oklahoma, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Arkansas, Iowa, Ohio and Alabama.

Electricity for Medical Needs:

EMCs are doing everything possible to restore power, but for those that require electricity for medical needs, EMCs continue to recommend temporary relocation. If relocation is not an option, EMCs recommend securing a generator from a friend or neighbor or seeking help at a local medical facility.

Generator Usage and Safety

If using a generator, follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions and all safety guidelines.
Never operate a generator, grill, or camp stove indoors, such as in your home, crawlspace, basement, or garage.
Never connect generators to another power source, such as power lines. The reverse flow of electricity or “backfeed” can electrocute an unsuspecting utility worker.

For immediate release

Oct. 1, 2024

CONTACT: Kim Broun
770-260-6990
kim.broun@georgiaemc.com
Anne Lerner
anne.lerner@gatransmission.com

EMCs Continue Rebuilding Power and Transmission Lines in Hardest Hit Areas

TUCKER, Ga. – Georgia’s EMCs are reporting 184,000 members without power as of 4:30 p.m. today. This is down from approximately 435,000 following the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Helene. In Georgia’s hardest his areas on the eastern side of the state, the effort is a rebuild, not just restoration. EMCs ask for your patience as many more days of outages are expected in highly impacted areas.

EMCs maintain more than 196,000 miles of electric line in Georgia – enough to travel from California to Maine 62 times. Nearly all 41 EMCs in Georgia reported damage in the aftermath of Helene, with several EMCs on Georgia’s eastern side seeing total devastation. In affected areas, EMCs must ensure debris is removed from every mile of line and all broken poles and wires must be replaced before power is restored.

Georgia Transmission continues to restore and rebuild the high-voltage transmission system reporting more than 150 substations are now reenergized out of the nearly 200 taken out of service during the height of Hurricane Helene.

Out of the estimated 117 transmission lines serving EMCs that were damaged, close to 90 have been restored. Damage to transmission lines was extensive and widespread and may not even be visible near homes and businesses. It often requires more time and specialized equipment to reach the remote impacted areas. While EMC members may not see Georgia Transmission crews on their street, they can be assured work to restore the power grid in their area is progressing.

Georgia’s EMCs continue work to repair the main distribution and tap lines, with additional crews arriving to assist in the rebuilding efforts. States that have sent crews to aid in Georgia’s restoration include Pennsylvania, Indiana, Illinois, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Missouri, Texas, Arkansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia and Alabama. In addition, EMCs from Georgia’s western side are sending crews to fellow EMCs on the eastern side to aid in restoration.

Generator Usage and Safety

If using a generator, follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions and all safety guidelines.
Never operate a generator, grill, or camp stove indoors, such as in your home, crawlspace, basement, or garage.
Never connect generators to another power source, such as power lines. The reverse flow of electricity or “backfeed” can electrocute an unsuspecting utility worker.

For Immediate Release

Oct. 1, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

Georgia Power restores power to 80% of customers impacted by Hurricane Helene across the state

Georgia Power has restored power to 1 million+ customers over the last four days; Restoration efforts progressing in hardest hit areas including Valdosta, Savannah and Augusta

ATLANTA – October 1, 2024 – Georgia Power’s response to Hurricane Helene – the most destructive hurricane in the company’s history – has now grown to 20,000 personnel and continues its work across the state. As of Tuesday afternoon, the company has restored power to over 1 million customers impacted by Hurricane Helene – approximately 80 percent of all customers impacted by the storm. This rapid response has been possible through the implementation of new “smart grid” technologies and the quick work of pre-positioned teams who were ready to respond as soon as conditions were safe to do so on Friday.

Efforts have intensified to restore power to approximately 278,000 customers who remain without power due to the storm as damage has been cleared and access has improved. Crews continue to converge on and deploy in the hardest hit areas in coastal, eastern and southern Georgia and, as restoration has progressed, crews are working their way through the power system efficiently and effectively to repair extreme damage and restore power to the most customers with every repair made.

Georgia Power’s Outage Map illustrates the highest concentration of power outages remain in areas such as Augusta, Valdosta, Savannah, and surrounding communities. In many cases, the damage to infrastructure is so severe that teams are essentially rebuilding parts of the grid and not just repairing specific elements. While crews continue to face hurdles such as impassable roads, cellular and communications issues, and tree damage, progress is being made in the hardest hit areas with thousands of customers being restored in and around Augusta, Savannah, Valdosta and elsewhere. While damage and treacherous conditions remain, teams are working around the clock and will remain in the field until every customer who can accept power is restored.

Updated damage estimates illustrating the extensive destruction of Hurricane Helene include:

8,000+ power poles that must be repaired or replaced
21,000+ spans of wire equivalent to approximately 1,000 miles
1,500+ transformers
3,200+ trees on power lines that must be removed or addressed to restore power

Restoration Status Being Regularly Updated

Preparation, Industry Support Key to Response

Georgia Power monitored the path of Hurricane Helene for more than a week prior to the storm entering Georgia. As part of its preparations, Georgia Power mobilized additional staff from across the industry to respond to Hurricane Helene. Mobilized crews across the state pre-positioned restoration workers, equipment, and supplies near areas of anticipated impact including extra transformers, poles, cable and other equipment. Hurricane Helene had a statewide impact and Georgia Power matched that with a statewide response, including engagement of every Georgia Power crew at the beginning of the storm and thousands of additional lineworkers from outside of Georgia.

All this is part of advance planning and strategy to allow the company to restore power more quickly and efficiently for its customers as soon as weather conditions allow.

Georgia Power is also a member of a nationwide mutual assistance network, which consists of hundreds of utilities from around the country. Georgia Power has proactively mobilized crews from over 35 companies from states as far away as Texas, Oklahoma, Indiana, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The company continues to acquire additional off-system resources to aid in response.

As always, the company encourages customers to keep safety first following Hurricane Helene:

Watch for Georgia Power crews working across the state. If driving, move over one lane for utility vehicles stopped on the side of the road – it’s the law in Georgia.
Watch for downed wires. Downed power lines may be hidden by debris or fallen trees.
Never touch any downed wire or attempt to remove tree branches from power lines – it can kill.
Don’t step in standing water or saturated ground where downed lines may be present. They could be electrified.
Avoid chain link fences. They may be electrified by a downed line out of sight and conduct electricity over great distances.
Never attempt repairs to electric service connections. Customers should also note that if their home, including the meter box or mast/connection point, is severely damaged by the storm, repairs may need to be made by an electrician before Georgia Power can reconnect power.

Tools You Can Use to Stay Connected & Informed

Outage Alerts – Customers subscribed to our free Georgia Power Outage Alert service will receive personalized notifications and updates via text message. Check that your contact number is up to date to receive the latest information.
Outage & Storm Center – Available at www.GeorgiaPower.com/Storm, customers can visit this site to check their contact information is updated to receive Outage Alerts, report and check the status of outages, and access useful safety tips and information. Customers can also report and check the status of an outage 24 hours a day by contacting Georgia Power at 888-891-0938.
Outage Map – Housed within the Outage & Storm Center, Georgia Power’s interactive Outage Map provides near real-time information, allowing users to see where outages are occurring across the state and track estimated restoration times.
Georgia Power Mobile App – Download the Georgia Power mobile app for Apple and Android devices to access storm and outage information on the go.
@GeorgiaPower on X (Twitter) – Follow @GeorgiaPower on X for storm tips, outage updates, customer service and more.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For Immediate Release

Sept. 30, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

Georgia Power response force converging on hardest hit areas following most destructive hurricane in company’s history

Georgia Power has restored power to 840,000-plus customers following Hurricane Helene; 15,000-plus personnel remain engaged in restoration

ATLANTA – September 30, 2024 – Georgia Power continues its deployment of more than 15,000 personnel responding to Hurricane Helene – determined to be the most destructive hurricane in the company’s history. As of midday Monday, the company has restored power to more than 840,000 customers impacted by Helene. This rapid response has been possible through the implementation of new “smart grid” technologies and the quick work of pre-positioned teams who were ready to respond as soon as conditions were safe to do so on Friday.

Efforts are fully underway to restore power to approximately 370,000 customers who remain without power due to the storm. Hurricane Helene had a statewide impact and Georgia Power matched that with a statewide response, including engagement of every Georgia Power crew at the beginning of the storm and thousands of additional lineworkers from outside of Georgia. As restoration has progressed over the last several days, crews are working their way through the power system efficiently and effectively to repair extreme damage and restore power to the highest number of customers with every repair made.

As crews have completed their work near their initial staging areas, they are now converging on the hardest hit areas in coastal, eastern and southern Georgia. Georgia Power’s Outage Map illustrates the highest concentration of power outages in areas such as Augusta, Valdosta and Savannah, and surrounding communities. In many cases, the damage to infrastructure is so severe teams are essentially rebuilding parts of the grid and not just repairing specific elements.

Updated damage estimates illustrating the extensive destruction of Hurricane Helene include:

7,000+ power poles that must be repaired or replaced
15,000+ spans of wire equivalent to more than 700 miles
1,200+ transformers
3,000+ trees on power lines that must be removed or addressed to restore power

Georgia Power president, chairman and CEO Kim Greene has been in the field with crews making sure they have the resources they need to restore power. A video message from Greene to customers illustrating the damage she is seeing in the field is available on Facebook and Instagram. The company also continues to utilize social media to keep customers informed and show the progress of teams working in communities across the state.

Restoration Status Being Regularly Updated

Georgia Power appreciates the importance of accurate information for customers as they make plans for their families following this historic storm. As the company anticipated and announced before the arrival of the storm, restoration efforts are taking multiple days in many areas due to the extensive damage from Helene. Georgia Power continues to post updated estimated restoration times (ERTs) for communities on its Outage Map. Restoration efforts have been largely completed in areas such as Metro Atlanta, Athens, Columbus, Macon, Rome and Albany, while work continues in the hardest hit areas across the state.

The company will continue to post updated information throughout the remainder of the restoration process and will make every effort to return power to customers sooner than expected. Customers are encouraged to check the Outage Map often for the latest information and not rely on possibly inaccurate details they may see from non-company sources.

Preparation, Industry Support Key to Response

Georgia Power monitored the path of Hurricane Helene for more than a week prior to the storm entering Georgia. As part of its preparations, Georgia Power mobilized additional staff from across the industry to respond to Hurricane Helene. Mobilized crews across the state pre-positioned restoration workers, equipment, and supplies near areas of anticipated impact including extra transformers, poles, cable and other equipment. All this is part of advance planning and strategy to allow the company to restore power more quickly and efficiently for its customers as soon as weather conditions allow.

The company continues to utilize additional resources from outside of its system and currently has more than 15,000 personnel engaged in response, including support from Alabama Power, Mississippi Power and dozens of other companies. The response force currently engaged is larger than the company’s response to other major hurricanes including Michael, Irma and Zeta.

Georgia Power is also a member of a nationwide mutual assistance network, which consists of hundreds of utilities from around the country. Georgia Power has proactively mobilized crews from over 35 companies from states as far away as Texas, Oklahoma, Indiana, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The company continues to acquire additional off-system resources to aid in response.

As always, the company encourages customers to keep safety first following Hurricane Helene:

Watch for Georgia Power crews working across the state. If driving, move over one lane for utility vehicles stopped on the side of the road – it’s the law in Georgia.
Watch for downed wires. Downed power lines may be hidden by debris or fallen trees.
Never touch any downed wire or attempt to remove tree branches from power lines – it can kill.
Don’t step in standing water or saturated ground where downed lines may be present. They could be electrified.
Avoid chain link fences. They may be electrified by a downed line out of sight and conduct electricity over great distances.
Never attempt repairs to electric service connections. Customers should also note that if their home, including the meter box or mast/connection point, is severely damaged by the storm repairs may need to be made by an electrician before Georgia Power can reconnect power.

Tools You Can Use to Stay Connected & Informed

Outage Alerts – Customers subscribed to our free Georgia Power Outage Alert service will receive personalized notifications and updates via text message. Check that your contact number is up to date to receive the latest information.
Outage & Storm Center – Available at www.GeorgiaPower.com/Storm, customers can visit this site to check their contact information is updated to receive Outage Alerts, report and check the status of outages, and access useful safety tips and information. Customers can also report and check the status of an outage 24 hours a day by contacting Georgia Power at 888-891-0938.
Outage Map – Housed within the Outage & Storm Center, Georgia Power’s interactive Outage Map provides near real-time information, allowing users to see where outages are occurring across the state and track estimated restoration times.
Georgia Power Mobile App – Download the Georgia Power mobile app for Apple and Android devices to access storm and outage information on the go.
@GeorgiaPower on X (Twitter) – Follow @GeorgiaPower on X for storm tips, outage updates, customer service and more.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For immediate release

Sept. 30, 2024

CONTACT: Kim Broun
770-260-6990
kim.broun@georgiaemc.com
Anne Lerner
anne.lerner@gatransmission.com

EMCs Continue to Make Progress in Power Restoration in the Aftermath of Hurricane Helene

TUCKER, Ga. – EMCs are seeing progress and have restored power to nearly half of the affected meters statewide. Georgia’s EMCs are reporting 217,000 EMC members without power as of 3 p.m. today. This is down from approximately 435,000 following the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Helene. EMCs ask for your patience as several more days of outages are expected due to the extent of the damage. Some areas are expected to be out of power for at least a full week and even longer in the hardest hit areas.

On the transmission side, steady progress is being made. In the last 24 hours, Georgia Transmission has restored service to more than 40 additional substations and continues repair of the high-voltage transmission lines.

Restoration to transmission lines and substations is a complicated and critical step in restoring power. Electric service is unable to be delivered to individual homes and businesses until these long-distance, high-voltage transmission and substation facilities are brought back online. Georgia Transmission, along with the other members of the state’s Integrated Transmission System, have brought in additional crews with specialization in electrical transmission due to the extensive and wide-spread damage caused by Helene.

EMC crews continue work to repair the main distribution and tap lines, downline from substations, in preparation to receive power as substations and transmission lines come back on. The unprecedented damage seen in the harder hit areas causes these repairs to take a longer amount of time, as trees need to be removed from lines, poles reset and damaged wires replaced.

18 EMCs on the western side of Georgia that have wrapped up restoration in their service areas and have sent crews to fellow EMCs on the eastern side of the state to aid restoration efforts. States that have sent crews to aid in Georgia’s restoration include Texas, Oklahoma, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Arkansas, Iowa, Ohio and Alabama.

Logistics can become a challenge when hundreds of additional employees join the effort. The hardest hit co-ops have called on storm service groups to set up temporary housing and feed the additional crews. EMCs have received an outpouring of support from community members as well, many volunteering to provide meals and laundry services for EMC employees.

EMCs are doing everything possible to restore power, but temporary relocation is recommended for those that require electricity for medical needs. If relocation is not an option, EMCs recommend securing a generator from a friend or neighbor or seeking help at a local medical facility.

Generator Usage and Safety

If using a generator, follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions and all safety guidelines.
Never operate a generator, grill, or camp stove indoors, such as in your home, crawlspace, basement, or garage.
Never connect generators to another power source, such as power lines. The reverse flow of electricity or “backfeed” can electrocute an unsuspecting utility worker.

For Immediate Release

Sept. 30, 2024

CONTACT: Karlise Y. Grier, Executive Director
404-225-5040
kygrier@cjcpga.org

Nominations Open for 25th Justice Robert Benham Awards for Community Service

The Chief Justice’s Commission on Professionalism is accepting nominations for the 25^th Annual Justice Robert Benham Awards for Community Service through Monday, Nov. 11.

Since 1998, the awards have honored Georgia lawyers and judges who have made significant contributions to their communities beyond their legal practice or official obligations. Past award recipients have engaged in a wide range of endeavors, including youth athletics and mentoring programs, literacy programs, social services, faith-based activities, promotion and support for pro bono or low bono legal services programs, community development, education, sports, recreation and the arts.

A complete list of past award recipients is available at http://cjcpga.org/benhamcsa-past-recipients/http://cjcpga.org/benhamcsa-past-recipients/

Anyone, lawyers and non-lawyers alike, may submit a nomination. Nominees in each of Georgia’s 10 judicial districts are eligible for the award if they meet criteria as follows:

Be a member of the State Bar of Georgia, in good standing, or have been a member, in good standing, at the time of death;
Have made a significant and meaningful commitment of time and energy over time to at least one and ideally multiple community organizations that has made a difference to the public served by those organizations;
Have made contributions that are worthy of tribute and recognition from the perspective of the nominee’s local Georgia community and the contributions could encourage other Georgia Bar members to provide their own volunteer and civic services;
Not be a member of the Selection Committee, staff of the State Bar of Georgia or Chief Justice’s Commission on Professionalism; and
Not be a candidate in a contested judicial or political election at the time of the nomination until the time of the acceptance of the award.

Nominations are due Nov. 11. The nomination application can be found at http://cjcpga.org/nominationsbenhamcsa/

The Benham Awards Selection Committee, chaired by U.S. Department of Justice Assistant Chief Immigration Judge Joy Lampley-Fortson, will consider all nominations. The Commission, in partnership with the Georgia Legal History Foundation, will honor award recipients at a ceremony on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at the Nathan Deal Judicial Center.

Founded in 1989 by the Supreme Court of Georgia, the Chief Justice’s Commission on Professionalism was the first body of its kind in the nation. The mission of the Commission is to support and encourage lawyers to exercise the highest levels of professional integrity in their relationships with their clients, other lawyers, the courts, and the public and to fulfill their obligations to improve the law and the legal system and to ensure access to that system.

For Immediate Release

Sept. 29, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

Georgia Power releases key estimated damage statistics from Hurricane Helene as restoration progress continues

Helene marks most destructive hurricane in company’s history; restoration efforts fully underway with ~690,000 customers restored

ATLANTA – September 29, 2024 – Georgia Power’s restoration efforts following Hurricane Helene continued Sunday, with the company having restored service to approximately 690,000 customers since the start of the storm. This rapid response has been possible through the implementation of new “smart grid” technologies and the quick work of pre-positioned teams who were ready to respond as soon as conditions were safe to do so on Friday.

Crews continue to navigate treacherous conditions including extensive tree and flooding damage, as well as road closures. As of midday Sunday, efforts are fully underway to restore power to approximately 425,000 customers who remain without power due to the storm. Additionally, there is the potential for further damage and power outages that could occur due to the saturated ground and weakened trees.

Georgia Power has determined Hurricane Helene was the most destructive hurricane in its history damaging infrastructure across the state. Initial damage estimates illustrating the extensive destruction of Hurricane Helene include:

5,000+ power poles that must be repaired or replaced
9,000+ spans of wire equivalent to an estimated 425 miles
500+ transformers
1,500+ trees on power lines that must be removed or addressed to restore power

Georgia Power appreciates the importance of accurate information for customers as they make plans for their families following this historic storm. As the company anticipated and announced before the arrival of the storm, restoration efforts will take multiple days into this next week. Georgia Power continues to post updated estimated restoration times (ERTs) for communities on its Outage Map. As of Sunday, restoration efforts have been largely completed in areas such as Metro Atlanta, Columbus, Macon, Rome and Albany, while work continues in the hardest hit areas across the state.

The company will continue to post updated information throughout the remainder of the restoration process and will make every effort to return power to customers sooner than expected. Customers are encouraged to check the Outage Map often for the latest information and not rely on possibly inaccurate details they may see from non-company sources.

Preparation, Industry Support Key to Response

Georgia Power monitored the path of Hurricane Helene for more than a week prior to the storm entering Georgia. As part of its preparations, Georgia Power mobilized additional staff from across the industry to respond to Hurricane Helene. Mobilized crews across the state pre-positioned restoration workers, equipment, and supplies near areas of anticipated impact including extra transformers, poles, cable and other equipment. All this is part of advance planning and strategy to allow the company to restore power more quickly and efficiently for its customers as soon as weather conditions allow.

Georgia Power is also a member of a nationwide mutual assistance network, which consists of hundreds of utilities from around the country. Georgia Power has proactively mobilized crews from over 35 companies from states as far away as Texas, Oklahoma, Indiana, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The company continues to acquire additional off-system resources to aid in response.

As always, the company encourages customers to keep safety first following Hurricane Helene:

Watch for Georgia Power crews working across the state. If driving, move over one lane for utility vehicles stopped on the side of the road – it’s the law in Georgia.
Watch for downed wires. Downed power lines may be hidden by debris or fallen trees.
Never touch any downed wire or attempt to remove tree branches from power lines – it can kill.
Don’t step in standing water or saturated ground where downed lines may be present. They could be electrified.
Avoid chain link fences. They may be electrified by a downed line out of sight and conduct electricity over great distances.
Never attempt repairs to electric service connections. Customers should also note that if their home, including the meter box or mast/connection point, is severely damaged by the storm repairs may need to be made by an electrician before Georgia Power can reconnect power.

Tools You Can Use to Stay Connected & Informed

Outage Alerts – Customers subscribed to our free Georgia Power Outage Alert service will receive personalized notifications and updates via text message. Check that your contact number is up to date to receive the latest information.
Outage & Storm Center – Available at www.GeorgiaPower.com/Storm, customers can visit this site to check their contact information is updated to receive Outage Alerts, report and check the status of outages, and access useful safety tips and information. Customers can also report and check the status of an outage 24 hours a day by contacting Georgia Power at 888-891-0938.
Outage Map – Housed within the Outage & Storm Center, Georgia Power’s interactive Outage Map provides near real-time information, allowing users to see where outages are occurring across the state and track estimated restoration times.
Georgia Power Mobile App – Download the Georgia Power mobile app for Apple and Android devices to access storm and outage information on the go.
@GeorgiaPower on X (Twitter) – Follow @GeorgiaPower on X for storm tips, outage updates, customer service and more.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For immediate release

Sept. 29, 2024

CONTACT: Kim Broun
770-260-6990
kim.broun@georgiaemc.com
Anne Lerner
anne.lerner@gatransmission.com

EMCs Making Progress in Power Restoration, Significant Repairs Still Ahead

TUCKER, Ga. – EMCs are seeing progress as their statewide outage numbers have dropped to approximately 259,000 EMC customers without power as of 12:30 P.M. today. This is down from approximately 435,000 following the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Even with this considerable progress, EMCs are expecting several more days of outages, with the hardest hit areas expected to be out of power at least a week or more.

Since restoration efforts began, fixed-wing planes and helicopters have flown the state’s transmission lines to assess and locate damage. The extent of the damage seen is unprecedented, including hundreds of trees on transmission lines and toppled towers. Georgia Transmission reports that 80 of the more than 100 electrical substations that were knocked out by Helene are now at full operation. High-voltage transmission line repair proves to be more challenging, but progress is still being made.

Electric service is unable to be delivered to individual homes and businesses until these long-distance, high-voltage transmission facilities are brought back online. As Georgia Transmission works on those repairs, EMC crews continue work on the distribution side, repairing lines in preparation to receive power as substation and transmission lines come back on. This damage is extensive on distribution lines as well, with thousands of broken poles, countless trees on lines and broken wires that need to be replaced.

To increase the momentum of restoration efforts, several EMCs on the lesser impacted western side of the state have restored power in their service areas and are sending crews to EMCs in east Georgia. This is in addition to the crews that arrived in advance of Helene and immediately following the storm’s exit from Georgia. States that have sent crews to aid in Georgia’s restoration include Texas, Oklahoma, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Arkansas, Iowa, Ohio and Alabama.

The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association reports Hurricane Helene knocked out power to an estimated 1.25 million co-op members in the U.S., and is proving to be one of the most consequential storms in the 87-year history of electric cooperatives. The outpouring of support by EMC members and affected communities has been tremendous as EMCs and their members work together in Helene’s aftermath.

While everyone’s circumstances are unique, EMCs recommend those dependent on electricity for medical needs relocate to an area with electricity, secure a generator from a friend or neighbor, or seek help at a local medical facility. EMCs are doing everything possible to restore power, but do not want anyone to remain in a dangerous situation if the wait for restoration is longer than expected.

Generator Usage and Safety

If using a generator, follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions and all safety guidelines.
Never operate a generator, grill, or camp stove indoors, such as in your home, crawlspace, basement, or garage.
Never connect generators to another power source, such as power lines. The reverse flow of electricity or “backfeed” can electrocute an unsuspecting utility worker.

For Immediate Release

Sept. 28, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

Georgia Power restores power to 520,000-plus customers

Company posts estimated restoration times for additional communities across the state following the most destructive hurricane in its history

ATLANTA – September 28, 2024 – As of Saturday evening, Georgia Power has restored power to 520,000+ customers following the devasting impact of Hurricane Helene. This rapid response has been possible through the implementation of new “smart grid” technologies and the quick work of pre-positioned teams who were ready to respond as soon as conditions were safe to do so on Friday.

Crews continue to navigate treacherous conditions including extensive tree damage, persisting flooding conditions and many road closures. As the first full day of restoration progressed today, the company determined that Hurricane Helene was the most destructive hurricane in its history damaging infrastructure across the state. Additionally, there is the potential for additional damage and power outages that could occur due to the saturated ground and weakened trees.

Friday afternoon, just hours after the end of the storm in Georgia, the company published estimated restoration times (ERTs) for multiple communities (read more). On Saturday, as damage assessment activities provided valuable insight into damage and resources needed, the company posted new ERTs for additional communities across the state including Athens, Augusta, Brunswick, Clayton, Cornelia, Dublin, Gainesville, Hartwell, Hinesville, Macon, Madison, Milledgeville, Savannah, Springfield, Statesboro, Thomson, Tifton, Valdosta, Vidalia, Waycross and Waynesboro. ERTs represent the company’s expectation for 95% power restoration in the specified area. As the company anticipated and announced before the arrival of the storm, restoration efforts will take multiple days into next week. The latest ERTs for these areas, and others, are available on the company’s Outage Map.

Georgia Power appreciates the importance of accurate information for customers as they make plans for their families following this historic storm. The company is committed to publishing up to date information throughout the remainder of the restoration process and will make every effort to return power to customers sooner than expected. Customers are encouraged to check the Outage Map often for the latest information and not rely on possibly inaccurate details they may see from non-company sources.

The company continues to utilize additional resources from outside of its system and currently has 14,000+ personnel engaged in response, including support from Alabama Power, Mississippi Power and dozens of other companies. The response force currently engaged is larger than the company’s response to other major hurricanes including Michael, Irma and Zeta.

Preparation, Industry Support Key to Response

Georgia Power monitored the path of Hurricane Helene for more than a week prior to the storm entering Georgia. As part of its preparations, Georgia Power mobilized additional staff from across the industry to respond to Hurricane Helene. Mobilized crews across the state pre-positioned restoration workers, equipment, and supplies near areas of anticipated impact including extra transformers, poles, cable and other equipment. All this is part of advance planning and strategy to allow the company to restore power more quickly and efficiently for its customers as soon as weather conditions allow.

Georgia Power is also a member of a nationwide mutual assistance network, which consists of hundreds of utilities from around the country. Georgia Power has proactively mobilized crews from over 35 companies from states as far away as Texas, Oklahoma, Indiana, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The company continues to acquire additional off-system resources to aid in response.

As always, the company encourages customers to keep safety first following Hurricane Helene:

Watch for Georgia Power crews working across the state. If driving, move over one lane for utility vehicles stopped on the side of the road – it’s the law in Georgia.
Watch for downed wires. Downed power lines may be hidden by debris or fallen trees.
Never touch any downed wire or attempt to remove tree branches from power lines – it can kill.
Don’t step in standing water or saturated ground where downed lines may be present.They could be electrified.
Avoid chain link fences. They may be electrified by a downed line out of sight and conduct electricity over great distances.
Never attempt repairs to electric service connections. Customers should also note that if their home, including the meter box or mast/connection point, is severely damaged by the storm repairs may need to be made by an electrician before Georgia Power can reconnect power.

Tools You Can Use to Stay Connected & Informed

Outage Alerts – Customers subscribed to our free Georgia Power Outage Alert service will receive personalized notifications and updates via text message. Check that your contact number is up to date to receive the latest information.
Outage & Storm Center – Available at www.GeorgiaPower.com/Storm, customers can visit this site to check their contact information is updated to receive Outage Alerts, report and check the status of outages, and access useful safety tips and information. Customers can also report and check the status of an outage 24 hours a day by contacting Georgia Power at 888-891-0938.
Outage Map – Housed within the Outage & Storm Center, Georgia Power’s interactive Outage Map provides near real-time information, allowing users to see where outages are occurring across the state and track estimated restoration times.
Georgia Power Mobile App – Download the Georgia Power mobile app for Apple and Android devices to access storm and outage information on the go.
@GeorgiaPower on X (Twitter) – Follow @GeorgiaPower on X for storm tips, outage updates, customer service and more.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For Immediate Release

Sept. 28, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

Georgia Power restores power to 440,000 customers following Hurricane Helene

About 540,000 customers remain impacted Saturday morning as crews navigate treacherous conditions to repair damage; potential additional outages possible due to saturated ground and weakened trees

ATLANTA – September 28, 2024 – Georgia Power’s response to Hurricane Helene continues Saturday as the company marked the start of the first full day of restoration efforts. Since the beginning of the storm, Georgia Power has restored power to 440,000+ customers through the implementation of new “smart grid” technologies and the quick work of pre-positioned teams who were ready to respond as soon as conditions were safe to do so. Unfortunately, treacherous conditions remain across the state with crews navigating extensive tree damage, persisting flooding conditions and many road closures. As of Saturday mid-morning, approximately 540,000 customers remained impacted by Hurricane Helene. The company is also managing the potential for additional power outages that could occur due to the saturated ground and weakened trees.

Based on ongoing damage assessment, Georgia Power estimates that there are thousands of broken power poles that must be replaced, as well as many miles of down power lines, across the state. Damage assessment is an essential initial step of efficient restoration and helps the company identify where resources are best utilized to return power to customers quickly. Damage assessment teams enter the field and begin the restoration process as soon as conditions allow. Given the inaccessibility of these areas, many teams are utilizing drones and other technology to patrol damaged lines. These damage assessment teams are then followed by repair crews.

The company appreciates the importance of accurate information for customers as they make plans for their families and is committed to publishing up to date information throughout the remainder of the restoration process. Friday afternoon, just hours after the end of the storm in Georgia, the company published estimated restoration times (ERTs) for multiple communities (read more). Additional evaluation is underway across southern, coastal and eastern Georgia, where communities experienced hurricane force winds leading to extensive damage. New ERTs will be posted to the company’s Outage Map as they are available.

Preparation, Industry Support Key to Response

Georgia Power monitored the path of Hurricane Helene for more than a week prior to the storm entering Georgia and currently has more than 14,000 personnel engaged in response. As part of its preparations, Georgia Power mobilized additional staff from across the industry to respond to Hurricane Helene. Mobilized crews across the state pre-positioned restoration workers, equipment, and supplies near areas of anticipated impact including extra transformers, poles, cable and other equipment. All this is part of advance planning and strategy to allow the company to restore power more quickly and efficiently for its customers as soon as weather conditions allow.

Georgia Power is also a member of a nationwide mutual assistance network, which consists of hundreds of utilities from around the country. Georgia Power has proactively mobilized crews from over 35 companies from states as far away as Texas, Oklahoma, Indiana, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The company continues to acquire additional off-system resources to aid in response.

As always, the company encourages customers to keep safety first following Hurricane Helene:

Watch for Georgia Power crews working across the state. If driving, move over one lane for utility vehicles stopped on the side of the road – it’s the law in Georgia.
Watch for downed wires. Downed power lines may be hidden by debris or fallen trees.
Never touch any downed wire or attempt to remove tree branches from power lines – it can kill.
Don’t step in standing water or saturated ground where downed lines may be present.They could be electrified.
Avoid chain link fences. They may be electrified by a downed line out of sight and conduct electricity over great distances.
Never attempt repairs to electric service connections. Customers should also note that if their home, including the meter box or mast/connection point, is severely damaged by the storm repairs may need to be made by an electrician before Georgia Power can reconnect power.

Tools You Can Use to Stay Connected & Informed

Outage Alerts – Customers subscribed to our free Georgia Power Outage Alert service will receive personalized notifications and updates via text message. Check that your contact number is up to date to receive the latest information.
Outage & Storm Center – Available at www.GeorgiaPower.com/Storm, customers can visit this site to check their contact information is updated to receive Outage Alerts, report and check the status of outages, and access useful safety tips and information. Customers can also report and check the status of an outage 24 hours a day by contacting Georgia Power at 888-891-0938.
Outage Map – Housed within the Outage & Storm Center, Georgia Power’s interactive Outage Map provides near real-time information, allowing users to see where outages are occurring across the state and track estimated restoration times.
Georgia Power Mobile App – Download the Georgia Power mobile app for Apple and Android devices to access storm and outage information on the go.
@GeorgiaPower on X (Twitter) – Follow @GeorgiaPower on X for storm tips, outage updates, customer service and more.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For immediate release

Sept. 28, 2024

CONTACT: Kim Broun
770-260-6990
kim.broun@georgiaemc.com
Craig Heighton
craig.heighton@gatransmission.com

EMCs Continue Challenging Work to Restore Power

TUCKER, Ga. – Approximately 334,000 EMC customers remain without power as of 11 a.m. today, down from 435,000 following the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

The catastrophic damage causes challenges, as roads must be cleared, and flooding must recede to access damaged power equipment to make repairs. \

Hurricane Helene caused serious damage to the high-voltage transmission lines and substations that supply power to EMCs, which distribute the electricity to customers. Georgia Transmission reports that 30 of the more than 100 electrical substations that were knocked out by Helene are now at full operation. In addition, 20 of the 100-plus high-voltage transmission lines have been repaired or replaced. Fixed-wing planes and helicopters are now flying the state to assess and locate damage.

The damage to the supply side of the electrical grid from Helene is extensive, surpassing that of 2018’s Hurricane Michael in many areas, and will take longer to assess and repair. The damaged transmission lines and substations must be repaired before electricity will be available to run through residential lines. Georgia Transmission has been working in concert with local EMCs to get the power grid to fully functioning.

Hundreds of line workers from outside the state have come to help Georgia’s EMCs in restoration work. Many EMCs are setting up temporary “tent cities” through the help of storm service providers to house, feed and clothe these linemen. These services allow EMC employees, many of whom also do not have power, to better assist in the restoration effort. Every effort is being made to restore power as quickly, effectively and safely as possible.

Because of the extended time it will take to restore power in this complex situation created by Hurricane Helene, those who are medically fragile or have other critical electricity-dependent needs should consider temporarily seeking shelter in other areas that were less affected by this storm.

Safety continues to be a top priority in the restoration process. We recommend individuals keep a safe distance from crews working and stay away from downed power lines. Those that are using a generator as a temporary power source should follow the recommended generator safety tips, listed below, for the duration of the outage.

Generator Usage and Safety

If using a generator, follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions and all safety guidelines.
Never operate a generator, grill, or camp stove indoors, such as in your home, crawlspace, basement, or garage.
Never connect generators to another power source, such as power lines. The reverse flow of electricity or “backfeed” can electrocute an unsuspecting utility worker.

For Immediate Release

Sept. 27, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

Hurricane Helene restoration progresses with 250,000-plus customers restored; Georgia Power posts estimated restoration times for multiple communities

14,000-personnel engaged in response; additional ERTs to be posted as available

ATLANTA – September 27, 2024 – Georgia Power’s response to Hurricane Helene continued through the day Friday with teams working safely and quickly to restore power to more than 250,000 customers since the beginning of the storm. As of 7 PM on Friday, approximately 620,000 customers remain impacted due to the storm.

The company continues to bring more resources from outside of its system and currently has 14,000+ personnel engaged in response, including support from Alabama Power, Mississippi Power and dozens of other companies. The response force currently engaged is larger than the company’s response to other major hurricanes including Michael, Irma and Zeta.

Georgia Power teams have worked throughout the day not only restoring power to customers, but also conducting damage assessment which is an essential part of efficient restoration and helps the company identify where resources are best utilized to return power to customers quickly. Damage assessment teams enter the field and begin the restoration process as soon as conditions allow. Given the inaccessibility of many areas, teams are utilizing drones and other technology to patrol damaged lines. These damage assessment teams are then followed by repair crews.

Friday evening, teams were continuing this effort and providing details that allow the company to post estimated restoration times for customers where possible. Estimated restoration times (ERTs) are currently available on Georgia Power’s Outage Map for multiple communities including Albany, Alpharetta, Americus, Atlanta, Austell, Canton, Carrollton, Cartersville, Columbus, Dalton, Jonesboro, Lawrenceville, Newnan, Rome, Smyrna and Tucker.

The company appreciates the importance of accurate information for customers as they make plans for their families and is committed to publishing up to date information throughout the remainder of the storm response. Additional evaluation is occurring as areas are accessible across southern, coastal and eastern Georgia, where communities experienced hurricane force winds leading to extensive damage. New ERTs will be posted to the company’s Outage Map as they are available.

Hurricane Helene poured more than seven inches of rain overnight onto communities across the state, which combined with 80-100 mph winds to cause hundreds of road closures statewide and catastrophic damage to hundreds of structures with the greatest concentration in the south and east regions of the state. Teams continue to navigate these challenging conditions to repair damage and restore service to customers.

As always, the company encourages customers to keep safety first following Hurricane Helene:

Watch for Georgia Power crews working across the state. If driving, move over one lane for utility vehicles stopped on the side of the road – it’s the law in Georgia.
Watch for downed wires. Downed power lines may be hidden by debris or fallen trees.
Never touch any downed wire or attempt to remove tree branches from power lines – it can kill.
Don’t step in standing water or saturated ground where downed lines may be present.They could be electrified.
Avoid chain link fences. They may be electrified by a downed line out of sight and conduct electricity over great distances.
Never attempt repairs to electric service connections. Customers should also note that if their home, including the meter box or mast/connection point, is severely damaged by the storm repairs may need to be made by an electrician before Georgia Power can reconnect power.

Tools You Can Use to Stay Connected & Informed

Outage Alerts – Customers subscribed to our free Georgia Power Outage Alert service will receive personalized notifications and updates via text message. Check that your contact number is up to date to receive the latest information.
Outage & Storm Center – Available at www.GeorgiaPower.com/Storm, customers can visit this site to check their contact information is updated to receive Outage Alerts, report and check the status of outages, and access useful safety tips and information. Customers can also report and check the status of an outage 24 hours a day by contacting Georgia Power at 888-891-0938.
Outage Map – Housed within the Outage & Storm Center, Georgia Power’s interactive Outage Map provides near real-time information, allowing users to see where outages are occurring across the state and track estimated restoration times.
Georgia Power Mobile App – Download the Georgia Power mobile app for Apple and Android devices to access storm and outage information on the go.
@GeorgiaPower on X (Twitter) – Follow @GeorgiaPower on X for storm tips, outage updates, customer service and more.

Preparation, Industry Support Key to Response

Georgia Power monitored the path of Hurricane Helene for more than a week prior to the storm entering Georgia. As part of its preparations, Georgia Power mobilized additional staff from across the industry to respond to Hurricane Helene. Mobilized crews across the state pre-positioned restoration workers, equipment, and supplies near areas of anticipated impact including extra transformers, poles, cable and other equipment. All this is part of advance planning and strategy to allow the company to restore power more quickly and efficiently for its customers as soon as weather conditions allow.

Georgia Power is also a member of a nationwide mutual assistance network, which consists of hundreds of utilities from around the country. Georgia Power has proactively mobilized crews from over 35 companies from states as far away as Texas, Oklahoma, Indiana, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The company continues to acquire additional off-system resources to aid in response.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For immediate release

Sept. 27, 2024

CONTACT: Kim Broun
770-260-6990
kim.broun@georgiaemc.com

EMCs Continue Damage Assessment And Restoration

TUCKER, Ga. – At 4:30 p.m., EMCs in Georgia are reporting approximately 393,000 members without power. The damage is catastrophic, particularly in the eastern side of the state from the coast up to the greater Augusta area, as well as in Valdosta and surrounding areas. With fallen trees and downed power lines blocking roads, many linemen cleared their own paths to safely leave co-op offices and staging areas to begin damage assessments and restoration work.

Notable destruction of the transmission system has been seen in the eastern part of the state, disrupting power coming into many EMCs’ distribution substations. Many transmission towers have fallen, and toppled trees must be removed from transmission lines. Georgia Transmission reports that more than 100 high-voltage transmission lines and nearly 100 substations are currently out of service. Their crews are continuing to assess damage while simultaneously working to bring these lines and substations back to operation.

EMC line crews are continuing damage assessments and restoring power where possible. Much of the work will be arduous and time-intensive, involving removing trees from lines, replacing broken power poles and restringing electric wire.

With outage numbers reaching more than double those caused by Hurricane Michael in 2018—the most significant damage to Georgia’s electric system in decades—EMCs warn there will be extensive delays in total restoration. Medically fragile individuals who depend on electricity are encouraged to find an alternate location until power restoration is complete.

Thanks to mutual aid agreements with EMCs across the United States, crews and equipment have already arrived and are continuing to arrive from Texas, Oklahoma, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Arkansas, Iowa, Ohio and Alabama. Efforts to bring in additional crews are ongoing.

EMCs want to remind the public that safety is a priority for their employees and members alike. Individuals should stay away from downed power lines, keep a safe distance from crews as they work to restore power and review recommended generator safety tips, listed below, during the duration of the outage.

Generator Usage and Safety

If using a generator, follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions and all safety guidelines.
Never operate a generator, grill, or camp stove indoors, such as in your home, crawlspace, basement, or garage.
Never connect generators to another power source, such as power lines. The reverse flow of electricity or “backfeed” can electrocute an unsuspecting utility worker.

For Immediate Release

Sept. 27, 2024

CONTACT: Taylor Sills, Georgia Cotton Commission, 478-988-4235, taylor@georgiacotton.org

Hurricane Helene Devastates Georgia Farms

In the early hours September 27^th, Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc on south, southeast, east and parts of central Georgia and made an exceptionally damaging impact on farms. Affected producers are reporting yield losses ranging from 35% to a total loss, depending on location in the state. Producers are also reporting significant losses in farm structures, equipment, and infrastructure.

Official reports of losses will be coming in the coming weeks as University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service personnel collect data. It is however, without question that losses will be in the hundreds of millions of dollars. Losses will extend well beyond the farm, as cotton gins, other agribusinesses, and rural communities will feel the ripples of Hurricane Helene’s aftermath for years to come. Producers are encouraged to document damage and losses before, during, and after cleanup as well as financial records of cleanup, repair, etc., as assistance and crop insurance may take some time. Industry leadership has been in touch with officials in Washington and Atlanta describing the effects of the storm. We ask that the public continue to keep farmers, farming communities, and the families of those who lost their lives in their thoughts and prayers.

The Georgia Cotton Commission is a producer-funded organization located in Perry, Georgia. The Commission began in 1965. Georgia cotton producers pay an assessment enabling the Commission to invest in programs of research, promotion, and education on behalf of all cotton producers of Georgia. For more information about this and other topics please call 478-988-4235 or visit us on the web at www.georgiacottoncommission.org.

Top photo, Toombs County equipment damage, and, bottom photo, Bulloch County cotton damage due to Hurricane Helene.

For immediate release

Sept. 27, 2024

CONTACT: Cindy Morley
Director of Public Affairs, Home Builders Association of Georgia
cmorley@hbag.org

Safety, Effectiveness Key Issues For Flood Damage Clean Up

By Franklin Bailey, President
Home Builders Association of Georgia

Damaged pipes devastates the home owners who face cleaning up the mess left behind. The Home Builders Assocaition of Georgia (HBAG) would like you to know about the safe and effective methods for cleaning and repair if you are faced with flood damage.

Before beginning cleaning and repairing your home, be sure that there is no further danger of flooding. Inspect the house from the outside to assess how safe it is to enter. Wear protective clothing including rubber or work gloves, long-sleeved shirts and long pants to provide protection from contaminated water, vermin and debris.

Assume that the electrical system may be unsafe until it has been thoroughly tested. Make sure that all electric and gas service is shut off before entering a structure for the first time.

Unless you have received official word that the water supply is safe, purify all water for drinking, cooking and washing. Sterilize cookware, dishes and utensils before using them.

Contact your insurance adjuster as soon as possible, but you do not have to wait for the adjuster to arrive before you start your clean up efforts. Cleaning should begin as soon as it is safe to do so, but permanent repairs should not be attempted until the home is thoroughly dry. This process may take several weeks.

If you need to hire a contractor to perform repairs on any part of your home, find out if the contractor has a permanent business address and can provide references. Find out how long the contractor has been in business and whether the Better Business Bureau has any record of unresolved complaints. Make sure you get a complete, clearly written contract for the work to be done. Do not pay any cash up front unless you have signed a valid contract.

To thoroughly clean walls and woodwork, use a water solution with disinfectant or bleach, and use a brush to scrub away mud and dirt. If the electrical system is operating safely, a heater, fan or air conditioner can cut drying time.

Remove the interior surface of damaged, insulated walls to above the water height. Discard any wet insulation, and wash interior studs with disinfectant to prevent mildew. Keep the area well ventilated. Before replacing the insulation and the wall material, the open walls should be allowed to dry thoroughly. This process may take a month or more.

If you decide to clean the carpets yourself, pull up all water-soaked carpets and pads. Hose them off and scrub them with a solution of detergent and water if heavily soiled. Rinsing with a mild solution of water and chlorine bleach can retard odor and mildew, but chlorine bleach should not be used on wool and certain other types of fibers. Be sure the carpet is thoroughly dry before relaying it. Rubber and waffle-weave pads can be reused.

If water has seeped beneath sheet flooring, the entire sheet should be removed and replaced. For tile floors, loose tiles may be re-cemented if the floor is otherwise acceptable after it dries. Check that the subfloor is thoroughly dry before applying any new floor coverings. The drying process may take weeks or months.

Take flood-affected wood furniture outdoors to hose off. All drawers and other detachable parts should be removed for cleaning. Dry the furniture slowly to prevent warping, and be sure not to dry it in direct sunlight. Discard mattresses that have been soaked in flood waters.

Most motorized appliances can be saved. Turn off the electricity or other power source, unplug the appliance and open it as much as possible to wipe it clean. If possible, tilt the appliance to drain any standing water. Let the appliance dry and have it checked by an appliance repair professional before you plug it in.

Cleaning up after any disaster is never easy or fast, but it can be safe and effective. For more information on the local HBA in your community, check our webpage at www.hbag.org

For immediate release

Sept. 27, 2024

CONTACT: Kim Broun
770-260-6990
kim.broun@georgiaemc.com

EMCs Conduct Critical Damage Assessment After Hurricane Helene

TUCKER, Ga. – At 11:30 a.m., EMCs in Georgia are reporting approximately 435,000 members without power, primarily in South and Southeast Georgia, due to Hurricane Helene. Outage numbers rose sharply overnight and early this morning as the storm traveled north through the state, causing some of the worst destruction on the eastern side of the storm’s path.

In addition to damage to the EMCs’ distribution lines, Hurricane Helene severely damaged high-voltage transmission lines. These transmission lines are a critical piece of the electric grid, as they feed the substations that provide power to EMC distribution lines. Georgia Transmission and local EMCs have spent much of the day conducting an extensive damage assessment of Georgia’s power grid.

Crews are discovering catastrophic damage to the electric infrastructure. Georgia Transmission estimates that more than 100 high-voltage transmission lines and 60+ associated electrical substations are currently out of service.

As crews continue damage assessments, they are simultaneously working to restore power where possible. With the severity of damage to the transmission and distribution systems, EMCs warn there will be extensive delays in total restoration. Consequently, some EMC members in the most damaged parts of the state—especially those who are medically fragile—are encouraged to make temporary arrangements.

Beginning last week, EMCs in the path of Hurricane Helene called upon crews and line workers across the state as well as nearby states to aid in the restoration effort. Right now, crews and equipment have already arrived or are expected from Texas, Oklahoma, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Arkansas, Iowa, Ohio and Alabama. The list of states sending crews is likely to increase now that Helene has passed through Georgia.

During the recovery and restoration effort, EMCs want to remind the public to avoid downed power lines and assume that any downed lines are energized. Downed lines are extremely dangerous and could be fatal depending upon ground conditions. This is especially true in wet situations and even more so with standing water as a result of this storm. In addition, we ask the public to keep a safe distance from crews as they work to restore power.

About Georgia EMC:
Georgia EMC is the statewide trade association representing the state’s 41 electric cooperatives, Oglethorpe Power Corp., Georgia Transmission Corp. and Georgia System Operations Corp. Collectively, Georgia’s customer-owned co-ops provide electricity and related services to more than 4.4 million people, nearly half of Georgia’s population, across 73 percent of the state’s land area. To learn more, visit www.georgiaemc.com and follow us on Facebook and X.

For Immediate Release

Sept. 27, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

10,000-plus advance personnel deployed by Georgia Power to restore power Friday morning following Hurricane Helene

Damage assessment teams in the field for most efficient response; crews navigating flooded roadways, fallen trees and high wind gusts

ATLANTA – September 27, 2024 – As Hurricane Helene clears Georgia, Georgia Power has deployed 10,000+ personnel who were assembled in advance of the storm to begin full-scale damage assessment and restoration. There has been significant damage statewide due to hurricane-force winds and heavy rain, coupled with ground that was previously saturated due to Wednesday’s “storm before the storm” that hit the state ahead of the historic hurricane.

The entire state of Georgia has been affected by the storm, with the hardest hit areas including Savannah, Augusta and Valdosta. As of 10 a.m., approximately 730,000 Georgia Power customers are impacted by Hurricane Helene. Crews are working now to assess damage in every region across the state and will be restoring power to customers as quickly as possible. Since the beginning of the storm, power has been restored to more than 120,000 customers by crews, and “smart grid” technology enabling remote restoration while storm conditions were still at their worst.

Damage assessment is an essential part of efficient restoration and marks the first phase of the restoration process once the storm has left impacted areas. Damage assessment teams enter the field and begin the restoration process as soon as conditions allow. These teams are followed by repair crews depending on the amount of damage and access to the area. As weather conditions improve, restoration efforts can accelerate, but extended outages are possible due to the size and severity of Hurricane Helene.

Georgia Power reminds customers that dangerous conditions exist following a storm, and to always heed the advice of local, state, and federal emergency authorities in storm-affected areas.

After the Storm Safety Tips

Watch for downed wires. Downed power lines may be hidden by debris or fallen trees.

Never touch any downed wire or attempt to remove tree branches from power lines – it can kill.

Don’t step in standing water or saturated ground where downed lines may be present. They could be electrified.

Avoid chain link fences. They may be electrified by a downed line out of sight and conduct electricity over great distances.

Watch for Georgia Power crews working across the state. If driving, move over one lane for utility vehicles stopped on the side of the road – it’s the law in Georgia.
Protect electronics and appliances. Disconnect or turn off any appliances that will start automatically when power returns to avoid overloading circuits when power is restored.

For more on the damage assessment and restoration process, visit Georgia Power’s website or follow our social media channels.

Tools You Can Use to Stay Connected & Informed

Outage Alerts – Customers subscribed to our free Georgia Power Outage Alert service will receive personalized notifications and updates via text message. Check that your contact number is up to date to receive the latest information.

Outage & Storm Center – Available at www.GeorgiaPower.com/Storm, customers can visit this site to check their contact information is updated to receive Outage Alerts, report and check the status of outages, and access useful safety tips and information. Customers can also report and check the status of an outage 24 hours a day by contacting Georgia Power at 888-891-0938.

Outage Map – Housed within the Outage & Storm Center site, Georgia Power’s interactive Outage Map provides near real-time information, allowing users to see where outages are occurring across the state and track estimated restoration times.

Georgia Power Mobile App – Download the Georgia Power mobile app for Apple and Android devices to access storm and outage information on the go.
@GeorgiaPower on X (Twitter) – Follow @GeorgiaPower at www.X.com/GeorgiaPower for storm tips, outage updates, customer service and more.

Support from Across the Industry

As part of its preparations, Georgia Power mobilized additional staff – including from sister company Mississippi Power – to respond to Hurricane Helene. Mobilized crews across the state pre-positioned restoration workers, equipment, and supplies near areas of anticipated impact including extra transformers, poles, cable and other equipment. All is part of advance planning and strategy to allow the company to restore power more quickly and efficiently for its customers as soon as weather conditions allow.

Georgia Power is also a member of a nationwide mutual assistance network, which consists of hundreds of utilities from around the country. Georgia Power has proactively mobilized crews from over 35 companies from 11 states as far away as Texas, Oklahoma, Indiana, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The company is acquiring additional off-system resources and will be moving them into the state today.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For immediate release

Sept. 27, 2024

CONTACT: E. Lane Gresham
egresham3@gsu.edu

2024 Georgia Conference on Child Abuse & Neglect a repeat hit

350 prevention professionals gather for continuing education, networking

The 2024 Georgia Conference on Child Abuse & Neglect delivered on its promise to enhance best practices and share research-informed content with those who serve to strengthen Georgia’s families.

Held Sept. 11 at the Hilton Peachtree City Atlanta Hotel & Conference Center, the annual gathering of prevention professionals once again sold out several weeks in advance. Prevent Child Abuse Georgia, the Stephanie V. Blank Center for Safe and Healthy Children at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, and the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy co-hosted the event.

This year’s theme, “Lean on Me,” is a nod to the ecosystem shift toward creating a culture of family support, proactively responding to strengthen families, and valuing and uplifting people raising children.

Close to 350 attendees were informed on topics related to prevention, intervention, and the treatment of children and families impacted by child maltreatment.

PCA Georgia Executive Director Jennifer Stein marked her 10th year attending the conference, having served in the prevention space as a regional volunteer, Family Resource Center Director, and in her current leadership role.

“I was particularly proud of this year’s theme of Lean on Me, which evokes memories of the significant support I received as a newcomer to the child welfare field from the many prevention partners who are now my friends,” Stein said. “As we listened to our keynote, Dr. Charlyn Harper Brown expanded our understanding of the Strengthening Families Protective Factors, families that we have helped both formally and informally came to mind as we stood in the gap and supported them in building a network to lean on as they navigated the bumpy road of parenting. Additionally, connecting with colleagues around our united passion for doing more work upstream to prevent family separations filled my cup and inspired me.”

PCA Georgia Assistant Director Dr. Jyll Walsh welcomed the attendees to kick off the morning’s agenda, calling the group to consider a fresh perspective, weaving in the theme of “Lean on Me.”

“Often our systems are designed to respond to children and families after they are in crisis, or to act as surveillance on families, to report their deficits,” Walsh said. “But, what if, we stopped judging caregivers who are struggling and started examining the barriers that have allowed them to struggle…What if our first approach to families wasn’t ‘What did you do?’ or ‘What happened?’ but first asking caregivers, ‘How can I help you?’ or ‘What do you need?’” This approach reflects the ongoing work of PCA Georgia to reframe Mandated Reporters as Mandated Supporters. An encore presentation of the Lean on Me conference workshop will occur virtually Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at 10 a.m.

CHOA has been co-hosting with Prevent Child Abuse Georgia since 2016.

“This year’s theme of Lean on Me highlights the shift we are trying to make in the field. We recognize more and more than supporting parents and caregivers leads to healthier and safer kids,” said Stephanie V. Blank, Center for Safe and Healthy Children at CHOA Program Manager, Prevention and Training Angie Boy, DrPH, “Our sessions focused on equipping our participants to better support the communities they serve.”

GCCA Director of Prevention and Education Tiffany Sawyer echoed the sentiments of Stein and Boy with her feedback about the event.

“What a tremendous success the 2024 Georgia Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect was! This year’s theme, ‘Lean on Me,’ which is central to the work of the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy, underscores the vital importance of community support and collaboration in our efforts to protect and uplift children and more specifically their caregivers,” Sawyer said. “The theme was evident throughout many aspects of the conference, from the exceptional workshop sessions to the new ‘Relaxation Station’ allowing participants to focus on rest and their own well-being, to the multiple opportunities for meaningful connections. GCCA’s Prevention team is proud to be a host of this annual, impactful conference!”

A much-anticipated part of the conference is the recognition of the Mark Chaffin Community Awards recipients, this year going to Nancy Chandler, MSW, and the late Chris Allers, PhD.

The award is presented to individuals who have contributed mightily to preventing child abuse and neglect in Georgia.

Keynote speaker Dr. Charlyn Harper Browne, PhD, Senior Fellow, Center for the Study of Social Policy, delivered a talk on the Strengthening Families Protective Factors.

Throughout the conference, attendees attended workshops that discussed research, recommendations, community initiatives, and interventions. Topics included Supporting Youth at the Intersection of Neurodivergence and Trauma; Preventive Legal Advocacy: Family-Focused Advocacy to Reduce Child Welfare System Involvement; CDC’s Efforts to Prevent Child Sexual Abuse; Making data count with GaFCP Kids Count; Enhancing Safety and Improving Support Services for Immigrant Victims of Family Violence; An Overview of Child Abuse Pediatrics; Beyond the Lobby: Collaboration, Empowerment, & Support for Caregivers; Lean On Me: Creating a Culture of Support; Protective Factors Power Hour and others. For a complete list of workshops, visit the conference link shared below.

The workshops were 75-minute sessions, allowing attendees to have interactive conversations on how to push forward collaborative efforts toward a strengths-based approach to preventing child abuse and neglect.

As part of our trauma-informed efforts, the conference offered an all-day Relaxation Station for participants to prioritize self-care, recharge, or simply take a moment to decompress.

Click here to read more about the conference.

Shay Richards/Too Shay Photography Shown, from left, are Program Manager, Prevention and Training, Stephanie V. Blank Center for Safe and Healthy Children at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Angie Boy, DrPH; Director of Prevention and Education, Georgia Center for Child Advocacy Tiffany Sawyer; Mark Chaffin Community Award recipient Nancy Chandler, MSW; Advantage Consulting Senior Associate Mathew George; Advantage Consulting President Khurram Hassan, MPH; PCA Georgia Executive Director Jennifer Stein, MBA. George and Hassan represent the late Chris Allers, PhD, who was honored as a 2024 Mark Chaffin Award recipient.

For immediate release

Sept. 27, 2024

CONTACT: Kim Broun
770-260-6990
kim.broun@georgiaemc.com

EMCs See Significant Increase in Power Outages Overnight

Tucker, GA – This morning, Georgia’s Electric Membership Corporations (EMCs) report approximately 330,000 customers without power. Making landfall as a Category 4 Hurricane nearly 500 miles wide, Helene is one of the largest hurricanes to ever hit the state, and impacts are being seen across Georgia. The majority of the outages are currently in south, southeast, east and central Georgia. Outages in the northern half of the state are increasing as the storm continues to barrel through.

In addition to damage to EMC power distributions lines, Georgia Transmission Corp. reports that high-voltage transmission lines and substations have been affected. As soon as it is safe to do so, efforts will be underway to safely access downed electric transmission lines and properly assess the damage.

When it is safe for workers, EMC crews will descend upon hardest hit areas to begin damage assessments and initial restoration work, and outage numbers could increase as damage assessment is completed. Due to high winds and heavy rains, this storm caused widespread damage to trees, power lines and power poles. In many cases, trees will need to be cleared from roadways before line workers can access outages.

EMCs began hurricane season preparation in June, with preparations for Hurricane Helene beginning nearly a week ago. EMCs have participated in daily discussions with co-ops from across the country to arrange for extra crews, trucks and equipment. Thanks to mutual aid agreements, crews have arrived and will continue arriving today from Texas, Oklahoma, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Arkansas, Iowa and Ohio. Extra help will arrive from the neighboring Carolinas and Alabama as soon as they are released from their restoration efforts.

Outage Information:
A map showing current outages by region, updated every 15 minutes, can be found at http://www.georgiaemc.com/outages. To report power outages and gain more detailed outage and restoration updates, customers should contact their local EMC provider.

About Georgia EMC:
Georgia EMC is the statewide trade association representing the state’s 41 electric cooperatives, Oglethorpe Power Corp., Georgia Transmission Corp. and Georgia System Operations Corp. Collectively, Georgia’s customer-owned co-ops provide electricity and related services to 4.4 million people, nearly half of Georgia’s population, across 73 percent of the state’s land area. To learn more, visit www.georgiaemc.com and follow us on Facebook and X.

About Georgia Transmission:
Georgia Transmission Corp., a not-for-profit cooperative owned by 38 Electric Membership Corporations (EMCs), owns more than 5,000 miles of high-voltage transmission lines and more than 780 substations. These facilities deliver power to Georgia’s EMCs providing electricity to more than 4.5 million Georgians. For more information, visit gatransmission.com.

For Immediate Release

Sept. 26, 2024

CONTACT: University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Jordan Powers
jpowers@uga.edu

UGA Extension Service offers resources for weather emergencies

We have many research-backed resources to help before, during and after emergency situations. Whether the need is flood clean-up or financial considerations, Extension offers valuable research-based information to support communities preparing and recovering from disasters. Additionally, you’ll find related information from governmental and other Extension agencies.

Please click here to access UGA Extension Service resources.

For Immediate Release

Sept. 26, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

10,000-plus personnel on the ground to support restoration efforts following Hurricane Helene

Company making final preparations Thursday; encourages customers to prepare for extensive damage and potential for extended outages

ATLANTA – September 26, 2024 – As Hurricane Helene approaches the coast of Florida, Georgia Power is making its final preparations to respond to anticipated widespread damage and potential for extended power outages across the state. As the majority of the state of Georgia prepares to feel impacts from the storm, the company has aligned the right resources – more than 10,000 personnel on the ground currently – and continues to refine plans as the storm gets closer to ensure a safe and effective response. The National Hurricane Center forecasts high winds, heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and possible tornadoes as Hurricane Helene enters the state. This follows the “storm before the storm” – including heavy rains over the last 24 hours which has already caused flooding and weakened trees.

“Helene is a very large storm, moving into South Georgia with very little time to substantially weaken, and we expect the high winds and heavy rain to cause significant damage in many of our communities,” said Kim Greene, chairman, president and CEO of Georgia Power. “Our teams are well trained and experienced, and we’ve been watching this storm and making every preparation throughout the week. As conditions are safe, our teams will be in the field working to restore power as quickly as possible. Even so, we encourage customers to keep safety first in the coming days and prepare for the potential of power outages that could last multiple days due to the size and extensive reach of this storm.”

Support from Across the Industry

As part of its preparations, Georgia Power has mobilized additional staff – including from sister company Mississippi Power – to respond to Hurricane Helene. Mobilized crews across the state have pre-positioned restoration workers, equipment, and supplies near areas of anticipated impact including extra transformers, poles, cable and other equipment. All of this helps the company to restore power more quickly and efficiently for its customers as soon as weather conditions allow.

Georgia Power is also a member of a nationwide mutual assistance network, which consists of hundreds of utilities from around the country. Georgia Power has proactively mobilized crews from over 35 companies from 11 states as far away as Texas, Oklahoma, Indiana, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. These crews will deploy from strategic locations across the state to begin restoring power as soon as it is safe to do so following the storm.

Focused on Reliability Every Day

Georgia Power is always focused on improving reliability and adding resiliency to the power grid. In recent years, Georgia Power invested heavily in infrastructure improvements to bolster resiliency through equipment upgrades as well as the strategic implementation of Smart Grid technology that enhance the company’s real-time ability to identify and quickly isolate outages that occur, as well as reroute power remotely around damage. This technology helps minimize the number of customers affected even before crews begin repair work in the field.

Tools You Can Use to Stay Connected & Informed

Customers are asked to be aware that hurricanes have the potential to cause widespread power outages and dangerous conditions. Emergency plans should be finalized, including a way to stay informed before, during, and after the hurricane. It’s important to follow the advice of federal, state and local authorities, especially for people living in low-lying areas as flooding and heavy rain are expected.

Outage Alerts – Customers subscribed to our free Georgia Power Outage Alert service will receive personalized notifications and updates via text message. Check that your contact number is up to date to receive the latest information.

Outage & Storm Center – Available at www.GeorgiaPower.com/Storm, customers can visit this site to check their contact information is updated to receive Outage Alerts, report and check the status of outages, and access useful safety tips and information. Customers can also report and check the status of an outage 24 hours a day by contacting Georgia Power at 888-891-0938.
Outage Map – Housed within the Outage & Storm Center site, Georgia Power’s interactive Outage Map provides near real-time information, allowing users to see where outages are occurring across the state and track estimated restoration times.
Georgia Power Mobile App – Download the Georgia Power mobile app for Apple and Android devices to access storm and outage information on the go.
@GeorgiaPower on X (Twitter) – Follow @GeorgiaPower at www.X.com/GeorgiaPower for storm tips, outage updates, customer service and more.

Before, During and After a Storm Safety Tips

Before a Storm: Stay aware, heed advice from officials, and check the weather forecast before heading outdoors. Check your emergency kit and family plan. Unplug major appliances and charge cell phones and battery backups in case you lose power.
During a Storm: Take safe shelter inside a sturdy building away from windows and doors. Avoid contact with conductors of electricity – appliances, metal objects, and water.
After a Storm: Never touch any downed or low-hanging wire – including telephone or TV wires that touch a power line. Never pull tree limbs off of power lines yourself or enter areas with debris or downed trees as downed power lines may be buried in wreckage. Customers should call 911 or Georgia Power immediately if they see a fallen or low-hanging power line.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For use in newspapers the week of Sept. 30

Sept. 26, 2024

CONTACT: Ines Owens
Policy and Communications Director
Lt. Gov. Burt Jones
404-656-5030
ines.owens@ltgov.ga.gov

Lt. Gov. Burt Jones Op-Ed: What you need to know and can do about your property tax bills

Please click below to download this op-ed as a Word doc or PDF for use in your newspaper.

2024_9_23_Burt Jones Property Tax Op_Ed docx

2024_9_23_Burt Jones Property Tax Op_Ed PDF

By Lt. Governor Burt Jones

Property tax bills represent a major household expense every year for hardworking Georgians. A homeowner’s property tax bill is mostly based on two factors: the local tax rate and the assessed value of their home. Given the large increase in home values across Georgia in recent years, many school districts, cities, and counties have been able to count on a boost in revenue without raising tax rates year to year. This has resulted in large, and often surprise tax increases for many homeowners.

During the 2024 legislative session, I was proud to prioritize two pieces of property tax reform legislation that ultimately passed both the House and Senate by wide margins. On the November ballot, Georgians will vote on a proposed constitutional amendment that, if enacted, will allow legislation to go into effect that places an annual cap on the amount by which home values can rise for property tax purposes. If the proposed amendment passes, legislation I supported and that Governor Kemp has already signed, will bar local governments from raising your home value in a given year by more than the annual rate of inflation, even if the market value of the home has gone up by more. This will make it harder for your tax bill to rise just because the value of your home and others around it went up. Under this proposal, local officials will have to look at fairer and more transparent ways for local governments to raise more tax revenue from their citizens. I think the people of Georgia deserve that kind of transparency from all levels of government.

Under this proposal, a local government can opt out of this annual cap only after announcing its intention to do so and holding a series of public meetings – again, expressing the legislature’s desire for transparency. While this local option is an important feature of the proposal, it would be disappointing to see local governments utilize it without adequately listening to the concerns of the Georgians it would so greatly help. By opting out of a measure intended to save Georgian’s money and give them predictability in planning their annual household expenses, local governments would be prioritizing revenues over transparency and their citizens’ budgets.

This fall, Georgia voters will be asked: “Shall the Constitution of Georgia be amended so as to authorize the General Assembly to provide by general law for a state-wide homestead exemption that serves to limit increases in the assessed value of homesteads, but which any county, consolidated government, municipality, or local school system may opt out of upon the completion of certain procedures?” I encourage all Georgians to learn more about the reforms passed by the General Assembly this year and discuss these matters with their local elected officials as the November referendum approaches.

Burt Jones is Georgia’s thirteenth Lieutenant Governor. He serves as President of the Georgia Senate.

For immediate release

Sept. 25, 2024

CONTACT: Kim Broun
770-260-6990
kim.broun@georgiaemc.com

Georgia’s EMCs Prepare for the Impacts of Hurricane Helene

(TUCKER, Ga., Sept. 25, 2024, 12:30 PM) – Georgia’s Electric Membership Corporations (EMCs) stand ready for the impact of Hurricane Helene, forecasted to intensify and make landfall as a Category 3 storm on Florida’s Gulf Coast, just south of Tallahassee.

Hurricane Helene is a sizeable storm, expected to impact the entire state of Georgia. The storm will enter Georgia on Thursday evening, traveling through the state along the Alabama state line and exit northern Georgia by Friday afternoon. Helene is a fast-moving storm and is forecasted to produce a tremendous amount of rainfall, with a minimum of four inches projected in each area of the storm’s path.

Georgia is located on the eastern side of the storm, which produces stronger winds, a greater possibility for tornados and a higher storm surge. Wind speeds greater than 110 mph can be expected.

EMCs were aware of forecasts for an above-average hurricane season and have been preparing since the season began in June.

“EMCs keep extra poles, transformers, wire and other necessary equipment on hand during hurricane season,” said Harry Reeves, vice president of training and safety at Georgia EMC. “As with each tropical storm, we have been monitoring Helene since it began forming. EMCs around the state have activated their storm plans, and we are working together statewide to respond to the expected power outages caused by the storm.”

EMCs have mobilized all key personnel and additional contract crews, prepared trucks with emergency equipment and increased supplies of materials that could be needed. Key staff members have also been in contact with other emergency service providers, including EMAs, police, fire and public works.

At the same time, EMCs have been in regular contact with other electric cooperatives across region to arrange for help and additional support to restore power.

Gov. Brian Kemp issued a State of Emergency in Georgia on Tuesday. The emergency declaration makes all state resources available to local governments and entities within the impacted area of the hurricane. Officials are warning residents in the storm’s path to be prepared for hurricane-force winds, tornados and heavy rains which could lead to flash flooding. Reeves says residents should heed the advice of local officials and be assured that electric cooperatives across the state are prepared and ready to begin restoring service as soon as it is safe to do so.

EMCs will continue to watch Hurricane Helene closely and remind members to keep abreast of the storm’s development and take every precaution in the event extended power outages occur. Stay informed by visiting https://gema.georgia.gov/ and https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/.

As Georgia’s EMCs prepare, EMC members are encouraged to do the same using their emergency plan and the steps below.

As the Storm Approaches:

Protect your home. Secure windows and doors and move loose items inside.
Charge Up: Plug in all devices and keep them at a full charge.
Check the Pantry: Make sure you have non-perishable food items and bottled water on hand.
Fill Your Tank: It is always good to fill your car with gasoline in preparation for a lengthy outage. This can serve as another charging source for your devices while your home is without power.
Activate Your Medical Plan: Now is the time to charge battery backup devices for medically necessary equipment. Alternately, consider temporarily relocating to an area less likely to lose power due to the storm.
Stay updated. Keep up with storm updates for your area by checking weather apps, local TV stations and websites like weather.gov. Follow your local EMC and news outlets on social media for timely updates.
Know How to Report Outages: Outages can be reported through a variety of methods. Check with your local EMC to determine the most efficient way for you to report a power outage.

For Immediate Release

Sept. 24, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

Georgia Power monitoring, prepared to respond to statewide severe weather this week

Company encourages customers to prepare for impacts of Tropical Storm Helene

ATLANTA – September 24, 2024 – Georgia Power is monitoring the development of an expected tropical system currently developing in the Gulf of Mexico and preparing personnel and resources to respond to potential power outages later this week. While the path of the storm may change in the coming days, it is currently forecast to begin impacting South Georgia as early as Thursday with damaging winds, heavy rain, excessive lightning and hail. The system is very large and may impact communities across the state. Georgia Power is in touch with its response partners, including local and state governments, as well as other regional utilities.

Georgia Power reminds customers to stay safe and take time to prepare now – before the system enters the state. Resources available at GeorgiaPower.com/Storm can help customers prepare and stay informed. The company is committed to connecting with customers before, during and after severe weather.

Staying informed is most important during an emergency situation. Georgia Power has developed multiple ways for customers to stay connected.

Tools You Can Use to Stay Connected & Informed

Outage Alerts – Customers subscribed to our free Georgia Power Outage Alert service will receive personalized notifications and updates via text message. Check that your contact number is up to date to receive the latest information.

Outage & Storm Center – Available at www.GeorgiaPower.com/Storm, customers can visit this site to check their contact information is updated to receive Outage Alerts, report and check the status of outages, and access useful safety tips and information. Customers can also report and check the status of an outage 24 hours a day by contacting Georgia Power at 888-891-0938.

Outage Map – Housed within the Outage & Storm Center, Georgia Power’s interactive Outage Map provides near real-time information, allowing users to see where outages are occurring across the state and track estimated restoration times.
Georgia Power Mobile App – Download the Georgia Power mobile app for Apple and Android devices to access storm and outage information on the go.
@GeorgiaPower on X (Twitter) – Follow @GeorgiaPower on X for storm tips, outage updates, customer service and more.

Safety Tips – Before, During and After a Storm

Before a Storm: Stay aware, heed advice from officials, and check the weather forecast before heading outdoors. Check your emergency kit and family plan. Unplug major appliances and charge cell phones in case you lose power.
During a Storm: Take safe shelter inside a sturdy building away from windows and doors. Avoid contact with conductors of electricity – appliances, metal objects and water.
After a Storm: Never touch any downed or low-hanging wire, including telephone or TV wires that touch a power line. Never pull tree limbs off of power lines yourself or enter areas with debris or downed trees as downed power lines may be buried in wreckage. Customers should call 911 or Georgia Power immediately if they see a fallen or low-hanging power line.

Georgia Power is prepared to respond to outages safely and as quickly as weather conditions allow.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (Twitter.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For Immediate Release

Sept. 23, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Peanut Commission
Joy Crosby, 229-386-3690, joycrosby@gapeanuts.com

Plains, Peanuts and a President

The 27th Annual Plains Peanut Festival Celebrates Peanut Harvest and Honors 100th Birthday of 39th President Jimmy Carter

TIFTON, Ga. – The 27th annual Plains Peanut Festival is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 28 in Plains, Georgia, home of President Jimmy Carter and First Lady Rosalynn Carter. The event highlights the harvest of its cash crop, peanuts, which has big potential across the globe by providing a sustainable and nutritious product and fighting malnutrition. Georgia leads the nation in annual peanut production, accounting for nearly half of all the peanuts grown in the United States.

Farmers across the United States have begun harvesting peanuts, the sustainable crop that helps to replenish the soil with nutrients. Peanuts are also known for their health benefits. Peanuts contain more protein than any other nut and research continues to show that consuming a little less than a serving of peanuts a day is an effective way to reduce heart disease. Globally, peanuts are helping fight malnutrition by providing a therapeutic, ready-to-eat peanut product made in Fitzgerald, Georgia, from MANA Nutrition.

Festivities throughout the day include free entertainment, historical and educational displays, food vendors, as well as arts and crafts booths. The day begins at 8:00 a.m. with the Plains 5K and Fun Run and rolls right in to the Peanut Parade at 11:00, featuring beauty queens, political candidates, and antique tractors. Throughout the day arts and crafts vendors and food vendors are scattered throughout Maxine Reese Park and the Downtown Historic District, promising everything from quilts and woodworking prizes to snow cones and funnel cakes!

Peanut samples will be available throughout the festival on Main Street. The National Peanut Board, Georgia Peanut Commission and the National Peanut Buying Points Association will display exhibits on Main Street with samples of fresh fried Georgia Peanuts and grilled PB&J sandwiches.

During the festival, the White House Communications Agency will be set up in the Plains Community Center from 9:00 a.m. through noon. This agency is comprised of military personnel who serve in White House administrations. During the festival, former members will be showing films and answering questions about their roles in working with presidents and presidential families. Live music will be playing in the Community Center Courtyard throughout the morning also.

Mr. Peanut will officially lead the parade which begins at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, and Boze Godwin, former Mayor of Plains, will be honored as the Grand Marshall. For more than forty years Boze welcomed the many visitors to Plains through domestic peanut tours, international trade missions, and chefs all wanting to visit the hometown of the World’s Most Famous Peanut Farmer, President Carter.

The festival street dance featuring Slaughter Creek will perform live on Main Street beginning at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday.

Sponsors of this year’s peanut festival include American Peanut Shellers Association, Birdsong Peanuts, Buffalo Peanut Company, Georgia Federal-State Inspection, Georgia Peanut Commission, Golden Peanut Company, MANA Nutrition, National Peanut Board, National Peanut Buying Points Association, Olam Peanut Shelling Company, Premium Peanut, Hormel/Planters, The Peanut Institute, the United States Peanut Federation and Wayne Johnson for Congress Inc. Friends of the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site coordinates the festival annually.

For Immediate Release

Sept. 19, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

Georgia Power Foundation invests in Waters for Georgia with grants

Latest round of program provides $1 million in funding to help Georgia organizations advance investments in clean and vibrant waterways

ATLANTA – September 19, 2024 – The Georgia Power Foundation has announced the recipients of its Waters for Georgia grant program – The Trust for Public Land and the Seabrook Village Foundation. The organizations will share $1 million in grants under the program, which invests in water resource focused projects that result in measurable benefits to environments and communities in Georgia including projects to preserve and restore the state’s waterways, lakes and rivers.

“For more than a century, protecting Georgia’s natural legacy and its resources has been a foundational element of our commitment to being A Citizen Wherever We Serve,” said Jason Cuevas, vice president of Corporate Responsibility for Georgia Power, and president and CEO of the Georgia Power Foundation. “The Waters for Georgia grant program is just one way that we partner with instrumental organizations such as the Trust for Public Land and Seabrook Village Foundation that are working to preserve, and improve, our state’s water resources for Georgians today, and for future generations. We congratulate this year’s recipients and look forward to seeing the impact of their work.”

The Trust for Public Land – The Trust for Public Land works alongside communities to create, protect and steward the nature-rich places that are vital to human well-being. Their work strives to connect individuals with the outdoors by creating parks and protecting land for people to ensure healthy communities for the future. This organization will use grant funding to restore hydrological infrastructure, introduce green infrastructure and establish riverbank plant buffers in Mableton, adjacent to the Fulton County Airport – Brown Field.

Seabrook Village Foundation – This nonprofit organization is dedicated to research, education and the authentic portrayal of the Reconstruction culture and environment of the rural African American community in coastal Georgia. This organization will use grant funding to provide a living shoreline installation that facilitates a healthy marsh ecosystem while preserving the shoreline and preventing erosion that could impact the historical heritage site to the Gullah Geechee community.

The environmental actions and activities of the Waters for Georgia program, administered by Bonneville Energy Foundation, include green infrastructure, managing water quality, best management practices and community engagement. Since the launch in 2019, this strategic water quality initiative has supported 18 projects totaling $3 million of investment to enhance water quality across the state. Previous grant recipients include Trees Atlanta, The Nature Conservancy, The Georgia Conservancy, Golden Triangle Resource Conservation and Development Council, Eco-Action and more. The Georgia Power Foundation expects to initiate the next funding cycle in 2025.

The Georgia Power Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization and is the third-largest corporate giving foundation in Georgia. Since its creation in 1986, the foundation has been empowering the future of Georgia, with funds donated by shareholders. Georgia Power’s philanthropic focus is to be a citizen wherever we serve by investing in education, environmental stewardship, communities, and social justice efforts. Learn more at https://www.georgiapower.com/community.html.

About Georgia Power
Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable, and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For Immediate Release

Sept. 17, 2024

CONTACT: National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force
Dawn Brosnan, 912-988-1847, dbrosnan@mightyeighth.org

National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force to Remove Parachute from Rotunda

Pooler, GA – September 17, 2024 – The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force announces that the parachute in the museum’s iconic Major General Lewis E. Lyle Rotunda will be temporarily removed. The decision to remove the item comes as part of an ongoing effort to preserve the integrity of historic materials and ensure the safety of museum visitors.

The parachute, a symbolic centerpiece within the museum, has been displayed for several years, offering visitors a glimpse into the experiences of airmen during World War II. However, due to concerns about the preservation of the fabric and the need to perform structural evaluations, the museum’s curatorial team has made the difficult decision to take it down for the foreseeable future.

“The parachute is an object that reflects the bravery of the men who served in the Eighth Air Force during the war,” said Dawn Brosnan, Director of Communications and Marketing for the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force. “We are committed to protecting and preserving our collection, and sometimes that means removing exbibit items from display to extend their longevity.”

Museum officials are assessing the next steps, including potential restoration or alternative display options. While the parachute will be missed by visitors, the museum continues to offer a rich and immersive experience through its many other exhibits.

Updates on the status of the parachute and other ongoing preservation efforts will be provided as they become available.

About the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force

The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is located at 175 Bourne Avenue, Pooler, GA. Operating hours are Tue-Sat 10 am – 5 pm, Sun, Noon – 5 pm. For more information, call (912) 748-8888 or www.mightyeighth.org.

For Immediate Release

Sept. 13, 2024

CONTACT: Joy Crosby, Georgia Peanut Commission, 229-386-3690, joycrosby@gapeanuts.com

Peanut leaders join over 50 agricultural representatives in push for farm bill

Peanut farmers need assistance before 2025 crop year

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representatives from the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation (SPFF) traveled to Washington, D.C. this week to participate in a multi-commodity fly-in with over 50 other representatives from crop production and agricultural lending organizations. During the trip, SPFF representatives met with Members of the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate, as well as senior agricultural staff, to discuss the critical need for passing a Farm Bill before the end of 2024.

In November 2023, the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate passed a 1-year extension of Farm Bill programs at the same levels authorized in the 2018 Farm Bill. This extension will expire on September 30, 2024, and many commodity organizations are strongly encouraging a new Farm Bill, rather than another extension.

SPFF representatives played a vital role in advocating for the Farm Bill during approximately 60 meetings on Capitol Hill, providing insight to current extreme economic conditions and other issues they are experiencing across the southeast. The SPFF participants also addressed the desperate need for financial assistance to farmers before the new year and new Congress. The fly-in was successful in relaying a strong message across Capitol Hill.

Joe Boddiford, chairman of the Georgia Peanut Commission, was among the SPFF representatives this week. “We met with Members and their staff to convey the extreme urgency to have a new farm bill done before the end of the year. It’s clear that we need this congress to write the farm bill. Time is of the essence,” Boddiford said.

Joey Williams, a peanut farmer from Lenox, Georgia, also attended with the group. “I enjoyed working alongside other commodity members toward a common goal for the betterment of the agricultural industry. I appreciated the interest and support shown to us by the congressional members and staff this week,” he said.

Over 300 national and state groups sent a letter to congressional leaders on September 9 calling on them to pass the farm bill before year’s end.

Signatories included groups representing farmers, livestock and specialty crop producers, lenders and other essential stakeholders. Peanut-specific support was provided by American Peanut Shellers Association, National Peanut Buying Points Association, U.S. Peanut Federation, Alabama Peanut Producers Association, Florida Peanut Federation, Florida Peanut Producers Association, Georgia Peanut Commission, Mississippi Peanut Growers Association, and Western Peanut Growers.

The letter stated, “It is critical that Congress pass a new farm bill that strengthens the safety net as many producers are facing multiple years of not being profitable, and this is causing their overall financial situation to deteriorate.”

“Some will have challenges as they seek operating credit for the 2025 crop year.”

“Since the 2018 Farm Bill was signed into law, we have realized considerable gaps in the farm safety net due to sharply changing conditions, including the trade war with China, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, COVID-19 and related supply chain challenges, rising foreign subsidies, tariffs, non-tariff trade barriers and other harmful practices.”

“These conditions seriously tested the effectiveness of the 2018 Farm Bill, and it was only by the aggressive use of supplemental assistance that many farms survived.”

“The farm bill reauthorization provides an opportunity for Congress to address serious challenges in agriculture.”

—

Formed in 1998, the Southern Peanut Farmers Federation (SPFF) was established to allow Southeastern peanut producers to speak with a unified voice. SPFF is comprised of the Alabama Peanut Producers Association, Florida Peanut Producers Association, Georgia Peanut Commission, and Mississippi Peanut Growers Association.

For Immediate Release

Sept. 6, 2024

CONTACT: Steve Tedder
404-360-5692
stedder@liveoakcp.com

Flex Storage Announces Major Expansion of Self Storage Facility to Meet Growing Community Demand

Canton, Ga. (September 9, 2024) — Flex Storage, a leader in the self-storage industry, is excited to announce the expansion of its self-storage facility located at 7222 Cumming Highway, Canton, Ga. This major expansion will provide additional storage units to meet the needs of both residential and commercial customers in the Canton area.

The expansion project will add more than 68,000 square feet and 425 new storage units, including a variety of sizes to accommodate diverse storage needs. The newly expanded facility will also feature state-of-the-art security and access systems, drive-up, climate-controlled and drive-up climate units, and improved access to offer customers a superior storage experience.

“We are thrilled to expand our facility to better serve the growing demand in the Canton community,” said Brooks Lumpkin, Principal at DYO Investments. “This expansion reflects our commitment to providing top-notch storage solutions and superior customer service. We understand that our customers require secure, reliable, and accessible storage options, and this expansion allows us to deliver exactly what our customers want and need.”

Key features of the expanded facility will include:

Increased Storage Capacity: Additional units of various sizes to cater to both personal and business storage needs.
Drive-up and Drive-up Climate Controlled Units: Direct, convenient access to both conditioned and nonconditioned units.
Climate-Controlled Units: New climate-controlled storage options to protect sensitive items from extreme temperatures and humidity.

The project is expected to be completed in 2025 with a grand opening event planned to celebrate the expanded facility and show appreciation to the community for its support.

For more information about the expansion, or to inquire about availability and reservations, please visit our website at flexstorage.com.

About DYO Investments, LLC

DYO Investments specializes in self-storage and retail real estate. Based in Atlanta, the firm currently owns and operates an array of storage facilities and three retail assets in five southeastern U. S. states. DYO’s current assets under management total over $100M, and it is actively pursuing new opportunities. The company’s self-storage assets have achieved average annual same store revenue growth in excess of 25 percent. (dyoinv.com)

About MacArthur Holdings, LLC

MacArthur Holdings is a family-owned real estate firm that has been improving, converting and developing property for more than three generations. Based in Manhattan, the family’s New York real estate portfolio includes multifamily, retail, office, hotel and future development sites. Outside of New York, the firm has developed and owns office, warehouse, manufacturing and distribution facilities in southern New Hampshire, is an investor in numerous multifamily properties in New Jersey, Delaware and Pennsylvania and has partnered to develop ten self-storage properties to-date in the southeastern U.S. (macarthurholdings.com)

About Live Oak Capital Partners, LLC

Founded in 2012, Live Oak Capital Partners focuses primarily on niche property types in high-quality locations where the firm can add significant value and generate above-market returns. To date the firm has acquired, developed, managed and sold more than $150 million in real property, including seventeen self-storage properties in states across the southeastern U.S. (liveoakcp.com).

For Immediate Release

Sept. 5, 2024

CONTACT: Dan Curran
770-658-9586
dancurran@curranpr.com

Georgia Interfaith Public Policy Center Appoints Wesley E. Myrick as Executive Director

Former City of Atlanta Official Takes Helm

Atlanta, Ga. (September 4, 2024) — Seeking to expand its outreach, advocacy, and volunteer engagement efforts, the Georgia Interfaith Public Policy Center’s (GIPPC) board of directors, a community of Georgia lay and ordained faith leaders, has appointed Wesley E. Myrick as executive director. Founded in 2019, GIPPC is an ecumenical advocacy nonprofit that strives to unite Georgia’s people of faith to educate, empower, and advocate for the common good. It identifies issues of interest to people of faith, magnifies their voices, and mobilizes concerned citizens around common values of love, justice, mercy, and hospitality.

A nonprofit leader with nearly two decades of experience specializing in strategy and nonprofit financial operations, Myrick most recently served as a senior policy analyst in the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office. While there, he led the development of city-wide initiatives such as the Mayor’s Faith-based Development Initiative which engaged faith leaders to create a pipeline of more than 2,000 affordable housing units. Additionally, he led engagements with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Department of Treasury. He further supported other critical initiatives such as the Rapid Housing Initiative, the Mayor’s Town Hall series, and the Mayor’s Summit on Neighborhoods.

With family origins in Monroe County, Ga., Myrick is an alumnus of Georgia State University, the Georgia Institute of Technology, and Arizona State University Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law. Myrick also serves as vice-chair of the board of trustees for the Interdenominational Theological Center, chair of the board of directors for the Common Market Southeast, and board treasurer for the LB Legacy Network, Inc.

“The Georgia Interfaith Public Policy Center enables Georgians to put their values of love, justice, mercy, and hospitality into action,” said the Reverend John R. Moeller, Jr., GIPPC board chair and president & CEO of Inspiritus. “We are excited to have Wesley Myrick join us as executive director and look forward to the leadership he will bring to the Center.”

As executive director, Myrick will be responsible for the organization’s overall management, strategic direction, and growth. He will work closely with the board of directors to advance the GIPPC mission and strategic plan. He will work to inspire and mobilize constituents, policymakers, coalition partners, and the public about issues important to the faith community and the organization’s mission.

“The state’s faith community has so much to contribute to conversations about issues of most impact to the future of all Georgians,” said Wesley E. Myrick, executive director of the Georgia Interfaith Public Policy Center. “I look forward to using my experience in government and expertise in managing strategic partnerships to build impactful coalitions that amplify the voice of Georgia’s community of the faithful through the work of the Center.”

Currently, the Center is an active ally in coalitions to expand healthcare access, provide second chances to the previously incarcerated, provide alternatives to the death penalty, make housing safe and affordable, and other issues of justice and mercy.

Myrick succeeds The Venerable Carole Maddux, Archdeacon of the Episcopal Diocese of Atlanta, a co-founder of the Center.

“The Center owes a debt of gratitude to Carole for her pioneering and sacrificial leadership that poised it to make this move,” said Moeller. “We appreciate her years of service and commitment to spreading the word about the mission of the organization.”

Information about volunteer opportunities with the Georgia Interfaith Public Policy Center is available at https://gippc.org/volunteer-form/.

About the Georgia Interfaith Public Policy Center

The Georgia Interfaith Public Policy Center’s mission is to “Educate, empower, and advocate for the common good by uniting Georgia’s people of faith.” The Center is led by faith leaders from across the state of Georgia. Learn more at www.gippc.org.

Press Release Rendering_FlexStorage_9.6.24

For Immediate Release

Sept. 5, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

Georgia Public Service Commission approves motion to deliver $122 million in savings to Georgia Power customers beginning in January

Near-term rate relief possible due to lower state corporate tax rate

ATLANTA – September 5, 2024 – The Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) voted unanimously this week to approve a motion by Commissioner Fitz Johnson to expedite the return of approximately $122 million for the benefit of Georgia Power customers as early as January 2025. The funds are available due to recent changes to state tax law which lowered the company’s corporate tax rate and will help offset inflationary related cost increases for customers.

Under the direction of the Georgia PSC, the company will work quickly to deliver near-term rate relief for customers, which is expected to result in estimated savings of approximately $2.25 per month for the typical residential customer using an average of 1,000 kilowatt hours per month beginning in January 2025. This adjustment will partially offset the implementation of the third year of Georgia Power’s 2022 rate request (read more here).

The move is the direct result of the passage of House Bills 1015 and 1023 by the Georgia General Assembly earlier this year, and signed into law by Governor Brian Kemp in April, which lower the state’s income tax rate and matches the corporate income tax rate to the individual income tax rate. According to the approved motion, both legislative actions lower taxes for all Georgians and will continue to make Georgia one of the most attractive places in the world to do business and encourage businesses with good paying jobs to locate in the state.

“Every day, we work to keep our rates as low as possible while making the investments needed to deliver reliable energy and power a growing Georgia,” said Kim Greene, president, chairman and CEO of Georgia Power. “We applaud members of the Georgia legislature and Governor Kemp for revising the state’s tax code, and the members of the Georgia PSC for working with us to quickly return these funds for the benefit of customers.”

Georgia Power has a strong history of keeping energy affordable and maintains this continuous focus every day. In fact, the company’s retail rates have averaged 15 percent below the national average since 1990. Even with rates lower than the national average, the company knows that any increase in your power bill matters. Please visit GeorgiaPower.com/MyEnergy for ways to save, rate options that best fit your lifestyle, payment assistance and more.

About Georgia Power
Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable, and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X(X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For Immediate Release

Sept. 3, 2024

CONTACT: National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force
Dawn Brosnan, 912-988-1847, dbrosnan@mightyeighth.org

Author Talk | I Will Tell No War Stories: What Our Fathers Left Unsaid about World War II with Howard Mansfield

Wednesday, Sept. 12, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. at the Skidaway Island Community Church

Chatham County, GA – The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force’s monthly Author Talk series is proud to present Howard Mansfield, who will be discussing his book I Will Tell No War Stories: What Our Fathers Left Unsaid about World War II. This program presented by the museum will take place on September 12th at 6:30 pm at the Skidaway Island Community Church, 50 Diamond Causeway, Savannah, Ga 31411.The event is free to the public, but registration is required: https://forms.gle/6uFih7gJuti4uyr48

About the Book

When Howard Mansfield grew up, World War II was omnipresent and hidden. This was also true of his father’s time in the Air Force. Like most of his generation, it was a rule not to talk about what he’d experienced in war. “You’re not getting any war stories from me,” he’d say.

Cleaning up the old family house the year before his father’s death, Mansfield was surprised to find a short diary of the bombing missions he had flown. Some of the missions were harrowing. Mansfield began to fill in the details, and to be surprised again, this time by a history he thought he knew.

I Will Tell No War Stories is about undoing the forgetting in a family and in a society that has hidden the horrors and cataclysm of a world at war. Some part of that forgetting was necessary for the veterans, otherwise how could they come home, how could they find peace?

About the Author

Howard Mansfield is the author of 13 books, including The Sam Ax, Twice, In the Memory House, Turn and Jump, Chasing Eden, and, most recently, I Will Tell No War Stories. In 2023, his books were honored with the Ruth & James Ewing Arts Awards for Literary Arts.

Masfield’s work has been honored with a Gold Medal for Commentary for City and Regional Magazines, a Silver medal from the Independent Publisher Book Awards, and as a Feature Story Finalist in the National City and Regional Magazine Awards. He received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Franklin Pierce University.

About the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force

Museum highlights include a fully restored B-17 “Flying Fortress” and the multimedia “Mission Experience,” an immersive simulated bombing mission in a special theater utilizing actual combat footage.

Program contact:
Heather Thies
Director of Education and Volunteers
912-988-1835, education@mightyeighth.org

For Immediate Release

Aug. 29, 2024

CONTACT: Matthew Kent, MPIO
Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

Georgia Power determines locations for 500 MW of new batter energy storage systems approved in 2023 IRP Update

New resources will help company meet the energy needs of a growing Georgia

ATLANTA – August 29, 2024 – Georgia Power has identified locations for 500 MW of new battery energy storage systems (BESS) authorized by the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) earlier this year as part of the company’s 2023 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) Update. According to the company’s recent filing with the Georgia PSC, the portfolio of BESS resources proposed by Georgia Power helps address the resource needs identified in the 2023 IRP Update in a cost-effective and strategic manner.

Each of the proposed resources will consist of 4-hour duration BESS. Once developed, these projects will serve as dispatchable capacity resources that will provide customers with a reliable and economical source of electricity for the winter of 2026/2027. These resources will add to Georgia Power’s diverse generation portfolio, helping to ensure the company has the mix of technologies necessary to provide clean, safe, reliable and affordable electric service for all customers during all hours.

BESS support the reliability and resilience of the electric system, while also enhancing the value of intermittent renewable generation like solar. BESS can improve the efficiency of renewable energy by storing excess energy produced during periods when the demand for electricity is lower, for use when the demand is higher, such as on cold winter mornings. Because battery storage can provide stored energy to the grid over several hours, BESS resources can also rapidly respond to other system events to increase the reliability of the electric system.

The new BESS facilities planned and under development are:

Robins BESS (Bibb County, 128 MW). This strategic site is co-located with the existing solar facility adjacent to the Robins Air Force Base and allows Georgia Power to leverage existing infrastructure, thereby eliminating the need to construct new transmission generator step-up (GSU) project-level substations and eliminating potential expenses and long lead time projects associated with transmission interconnection and network upgrades.
Moody BESS (Lowndes County, 49.5 MW). Similar to the Robins BESS project, this strategic choice is co-located with the existing solar facility adjacent to the Moody Air Force Base and allows Georgia Power to leverage existing infrastructure, thereby eliminating the need for constructing new transmission GSU project-level substations and eliminating potential expenses and long lead time projects associated with interconnection and network upgrades. It also offers expedited deployment capabilities and ensures known transmission deliverability.
Hammond BESS (Floyd County, 57.5 MW). The Hammond BESS project is a standalone BESS that leverages existing infrastructure from the retired coal-fired Plant Hammond facility. With the repurposing of an existing generation site and the utilization of already identified transmission capacity, the Hammond BESS project provides significant benefit to customers while aiding the company in meeting its capacity needs.
McGrau Ford Site Phase II BESS (Cherokee County, 265 MW). Given the existing site work, land acquisition, and contracting for McGrau Ford Phase I BESS, Georgia Power will realize efficiencies in contracting and construction by using the same construction company and company-owned land. In addition, the preliminary design for McGrau Ford Phase I BESS provides an opportunity for Georgia Power to cost effectively expand the project level substation and generation tie line rather than construct a new project level substation.

Each BESS project is expected to produce significant benefits for customers. For example, leveraging existing sites and transmission infrastructure will reduce deployment time and avoid additional capital investment otherwise required. In addition, each BESS project qualifies for customer cost reducing tax incentives from the Inflation Reduction Act. The proposed BESS resources will also provide “energy arbitrage” benefits, which optimize energy savings by shifting the energy output from hours with a relatively low system marginal cost to hours with a relatively high system marginal cost – ultimately saving customers money.

In addition to the 500 MW BESS projects from the 2023 IRP Update, Georgia Power is nearing completion on the 65 MW Mossy Branch Battery Facility located in Talbot County, Georgia. Mossy Branch was approved in the 2019 IRP and will be Georgia Power’s first BESS resource. The company is also developing the 265 MW McGrau Ford Phase I BESS project, approved in the 2022 IRP, and expects it to enter service by the end of 2026.

To learn more about how Georgia Power is meeting the needs of customers through a diverse, balanced energy portfolio, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com/IRP.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower [facebook.com]), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower [twitter.com]) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power [instagram.com]).

For Immediate Release

Aug. 15, 2024

CONTACT: Taylor Sills, Georgia Cotton Commission, 478-988-4235, taylor@georgiacotton.org
Joy Crosby, Georgia Peanut Commission, 229-386-3690, joycrosby@gapeanuts.com

Cotton/Peanut Research Field Day set for Sept. 4. 2024, in Tifton, Georgia

PERRY/TIFTON, Ga. – The Georgia Cotton Commission, Georgia Peanut Commission and the University of Georgia Extension Cotton and Peanut Teams, will co-sponsor a joint research field day on Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024, in Tifton, Georgia.

The field day will start at 8:00 a.m. at the Tifton Campus Conference Center (TCCC) in the North Parking Lot. After a brief welcome, field day attendees will visit the RDC Pivot and the UGA Lang Farm to tour several trials and hear from speakers. Attendees will return to the UGA Tifton Campus Conference Center for lunch and a short program. The field day is a free event, but attendees are encouraged to RSVP to Mallory Marchant at mallory.marchant@uga.edu or calling 229-386-3366 to provide an accurate count for lunch.

The purpose of the tour is to showcase current research, which is funded by the respective commissions, in plot-side presentations by the researchers. The sponsors’ goal is to provide an educational environment for cotton and peanut farmers and give them the opportunity to pose questions directly to the researchers and to express opinions and concerns pertinent to the production of their crops.

Chairmen of the cotton and peanut commissions, Bart Davis and Joe Boddiford, respectively, agree this event gives farmers the distinct opportunity to interact with the researchers, leadership of each commission, other farmers and industry representatives. It is an excellent place for farmers to observe, first-hand, the research programs funded by their checkoff investments.

To view an agenda, visit www.georgiacottoncommission.org or www.gapeanuts.com.

For Immediate Release

Aug. 22, 2024

CONTACT: Ben Smith, bsmith@cherrystreetenergy.com
678-756-0463
cherrystreet.com

Fulton County Unanimously Approves Battery Storage Resilience Hub

Cherry Street Energy, the County’s renewable energy provider, to upgrade existing solar power system with battery storage

Fulton County Metropolitan Library. The solar power system shown is owned, operated, and maintained by Cherry Street Energy, and will support the battery storage.

ATLANTA, GA [8/22/2024] – Fulton County’s Metropolitan Library is set to become its first building to combine solar power with battery storage, transforming it into a clean energy resilience hub. The project not only showcases Fulton County’s leadership in sustainable infrastructure but also sets a precedent for other counties and cities looking to enhance their energy resilience and reduce their carbon footprint. Cherry Street Energy, a leading renewable power company, will spearhead this innovative project.

“Fulton County Government is leading the effort to provide our communities with the ability to anticipate, prepare for and adapt to climate change, extreme weather events, emergencies and health crises. We are especially grateful for the efforts of everyone in our entire sustainability and resiliency community who have worked with our Library program since 2004, keeping us at the forefront of sustainability efforts across Fulton County and within libraries,” said Gayle Holloman, Executive Director of the Fulton County Library System.

The project’s unanimous approval by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners marks a significant milestone in the County’s commitment to sustainable energy. Michael Chanin, CEO of Cherry Street Energy, applauded the Board’s vote as “reaffirming the County’s dedication to providing reliable and renewable energy at all County facilities.”

The initiative builds on a successful partnership that began in 2021 with the signing of a 20-year Solar Energy Procurement Agreement (SEPA). Under this arrangement Cherry Street installs, owns, operates and maintains solar power systems across Fulton County, providing competitively priced renewable electricity with no upfront costs or ongoing maintenance fees for the County. In addition to batteries, the SEPA allows for adding more solar systems across the County, as well as technologies like electric vehicle charging.

The new battery system will enhance the library’s resilience against grid outages, allowing the facility to continue serving the community during and after emergency events, including extreme weather caused by climate change. It will also enable the County to derive more value from the existing on-site solar facility. “The combination of battery storage and solar power will allow better leveraging of onsite renewable energy, creating cost savings and providing resiliency for the building and residents of Fulton County,” said Cherry Street Energy’s CTO Dr. Ben Damiani.

Since 2021, the solar array at the Metropolitan Library has significantly reduced the facility’s reliance on traditional energy sources. The system has offset 365 tons of carbon, enough to power 65 homes for a year.

A $300,000 grant from the Southeast Sustainability Directors Network and Global Philanthropy Partnership will support the battery installation, scheduled to begin later this year.

Cherry Street Energy is the leading provider of on-site renewable power solutions in the southeast. As a trailblazer in the renewable energy industry, the company offers comprehensive services, including the design, installation, ownership, operation and maintenance of industry-leading solar and solar plus battery storage systems. Cherry Street’s innovative approach removes the financial burden and complexities associated with clean energy adoption, empowering customers to embrace sustainable energy solutions seamlessly. Its customer portfolio includes businesses like Porsche Cars North America and Gulfstream Aviation, and local governments like the City of Atlanta, Fulton County, and City of Savannah. Learn more at cherrystreet.com.

For Immediate Release

Aug. 15, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

Georgia Power improves efficiency, reduces costs using unmanned aerial systems

Use of “drones” to inspect transmission lines part of company’s commitment to reliability for customers

ATLANTA – August 15, 2024 – Georgia Power continues to focus on improving reliability and service for customers by making investments in the power grid and using advanced technology to prevent or restore power outages. The company is now deploying unmanned aerial systems, or drones, to inspect transmission power lines, helping ensure the safety and reliability of these main lines more efficiently and with greater accuracy than ever before. This innovative approach not only enhances operational efficiency, reducing the amount of time to inspect transmission lines by 40% on average, but also delivers substantial cost savings of 60% versus traditional methods.

“Georgia Power owns and operates almost 12,000 miles of transmission lines throughout the state, which provide power to millions of homes and businesses – inspecting and maintaining these lines is a crucial part of what we do every day,” said Fran Forehand, senior vice president of Transmission for Georgia Power. “We are always looking to improve grid resiliency and operational efficiencies, which is why we implemented transmission line drone inspections to improve efficiency and safety for our teams, provide better data and reduce costs for our customers.”

Historically, Georgia Power has used specialized bucket trucks and helicopter flights to reach and inspect transmission lines which are, on average, 80 to 100 miles long and 100 feet tall, with some reaching as high as 350 feet. By using drones, the company is saving significant fuel, maintenance and labor costs and, on average, drone pilots can inspect 14 miles of transmission lines per day. Georgia Power plans to review more than 15,000 structures in transmission corridors this year alone.

Georgia Power drone pilots work safely, quietly and swiftly within transmission corridors, capturing images of transmission lines and equipment. The inspection method is an even safer way to assess these high-voltage lines, while gathering high-quality, detailed photos and videos. The images are so precise they allow line inspectors to zoom in on equipment and catch any irregularities before they can become a problem.

Transmission structures are engineered to withstand harsh environmental conditions, but damage does occur from sources such as lightning strikes, which is actually the primary cause of damage to transmission lines. Drone pilots inspect for damage and also ensure the connections on structures are intact, which minimizes the impact of lightning strikes on transmission equipment. Other anomalies on the inspection list for main power lines include damage from vegetation and debris, erosion from the elements, and bird excrement, which can be highly acidic.

All drone assessments are completed by licensed drone pilots and comply with all Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules and regulations. Drone pilots are often lineworkers who have received specialized training.

“As a former lineworker who has spent countless hours in bucket trucks inspecting transmission lines, the use of drones is a gamechanger,” said Nick Howell, a certified drone operator for Georgia Power. “I’m glad our company has made the investment in the technology, and in our people. Not only am I able to safely inspect transmission lines from the ground, but I’m able to better collect accurate data, share it with my team that may be miles away in some case, and ultimately get repairs done more quickly and efficiently than ever before.”

In addition to utilizing advanced technology such as drones, Georgia Power’s efforts to improve reliability and add grid resiliency in recent years includes rebuilding transmission lines and dozens of substations across Georgia for safe and reliable power delivery to neighborhoods; installing smart technology, which lessens the number of power outages and in some cases avoids outages altogether; upgrading or relocating hundreds of miles of power lines underground, where it made the most impact; and improving tens of thousands of power poles.

For more information on Georgia Power’s reliability work, please visit GeorgiaPower.com/Reliability.

Editor’s note:

Media can download b-roll of Georgia Power transmission line drone inspections and a company regional executive who explains this work: https://bcove.video/3S6hLyu . Video features: FAA Licensed Drone Pilot Nick Howell flying the UAS and inspecting power lines, actual footage from the drone, and NE Region Executive Tony Ferguson, who explains the work.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (Twitter.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For Immediate Release

August 15, 2024

CONTACT: National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force
Dawn Brosnan, 912-988-1847, dbrosnan@mightyeighth.org

Author Talk | A Churchill Treasury: Sir Winston’s Public Service Through Memorabilia by Brian E. Krapg

Sunday, Aug. 25, 2024, at 2 p.m. at the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force

Chatham County, GA – The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force’s monthly Author Talk series is proud to host the United States debut of Brian E. Krapf’s new book A Churchill Treasury | Sir Winston’s Public Service Through Memorabilia on August 25th at 2:00 pm. This program will take place on August 25th at 2:00 pm at the museum.

The event is free to the public, but registration is required: Click here to register.

About the Book

A Churchill Treasury fulfills a market need for publishing a new book documenting memorabilia from Sir Winston Churchill’s decades of public service. Globally called Churchilliana, these items encompass over 60 years of materials, including badges, ribbons, textiles, porcelain, glassware and ephemera with the last Churchilliana book being published over 20 years ago as a collectors’ guide. A Churchill Treasury will be enjoyed by collectors as well as readers interested in history since it uses period items to portray and explain Sir Winston’s public service, starting with his father and chief inspiration, Lord Randolph and ending with retirement after his second premiership.

A Churchill Treasury includes many rare items and pieces seen by the public for the very first time. Readers of all ages will enjoy learning about Sir Winston as they discover and appreciate the period pieces shown here.

About the Author

Besides being an accomplished civil trial lawyer in Savannah, Georgia, Brian E. Krapf has avidly collected period Churchilliana for over thirty-five years. According to fellow collectors, he has assembled the premier collection of Winston Churchill memorabilia in the United States. He is an active member of the International Churchill Society and has published a monthly Churchilliana column in the organization’s Chartwell Bulletin for the past six years. Likewise, items from the Krapf collection have been reproduced several times as cover illustrations for ICS’s Finest Hour quarterly journal. Additionally, Mr. Krapf is an avid collector and conservator of American presidential campaign memorabilia. He formerly served seven years as the national President of the American Political Items Collectors. He has been honored with APIC’s highest award, induction into the organization’s Hall of Fame. He is also a published political historian, and has been a guest on CNN, MSNBC and NPR. American items from the Krapf collection have been featured in History Channel documentaries and also in major printed media publications. Additionally, Mr. Krapf served as an advisor to Congress on proposed amendments to the Hobby Protection Act.

About the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force

The Museum educates visitors about the character, courage, valor, and patriotism of the brave individuals who fought in the Eighth Air Force, the largest air armada in history. The Museum uses films, exhibits, artifacts, and archival materials to tell the stories of individuals who served in the Eighth Air Force. Their sacrifices made victory in World War II possible.The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is located at 175 Bourne Avenue, Pooler, GA. Operating hours are Tue-Sat 10 am – 5 pm, Sun, Noon – 5 pm. For more information, call (912) 748-8888 or www.mightyeighth.org.

Program contact:

Heather Thies

Director of Education and Volunteers

912-988-1835

education@mightyeighth.org

For Immediate Release

Aug. 13, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

Alert Terminated at Vogtle Electric Generating Plant Vogtle Units 1 and 2

Event Timeline

An Alert was declared at the Alvin W. Vogtle Electric Generating Plant Vogtle Units 1&2 Tuesday, Aug. 13 at 12:00 p.m. ET due to a transformer fire that has since been extinguished. Plant conditions DID NOT threaten public safety.

Public Information

The alert at the Alvin W. Vogtle Electric Generating Plant was resolved today at 2:36 PM ET.
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) as well as state and local agencies were notified that the emergency was resolved.
Trained personnel are working on recovery efforts in close coordination with federal, state and local officials.
Georgia Power’s top priority is the safety of the public and employees at the plant. We are committed to the safe operation of our nuclear generating facility.
Information on recovery efforts will be provided as they become available.
Residents should stay tuned to their radio and television for the latest information. For information on how you and your family should respond to an emergency situation at the plant, refer to the Plant Vogtle Emergency Information Brochure here.
Information is also available on the Georgia Power website at georgiapower.com, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/GeorgiaPower and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GeorgiaPower You may also call 1-888-847-1186 for more information about the incident.

The Vogtle Electric Generating Plant, a four-unit electric generating plant located near Waynesboro, Georgia, is operated by Southern Nuclear and is co-owned by Georgia Power, Oglethorpe Power Corp., the Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia and Dalton Utilities. Click here for additional information about Plant Vogtle.

For Immediate Release

Aug. 9, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696
www.georgiapower.com

Georgia Power and Georgia 811 highlight digging safety with new PSA on Georgia 811 Day

Campaign educates and informs customers about the importance of having underground lines marked before digging at home or work

ATLANTA – August 9, 2024 – Georgia Power and Georgia 811 have partnered to release a new public service announcement (PSA) in advance of 811 Day on August 11 – a nationwide initiative aimed at educating homeowners, contractors and landscapers about the essential practice of contacting the national “Call Before You Dig” number.

The new PSA features Georgia Power employees with well-known Georgia 811 mascot, Digger Dog, and is available in English and Spanish. To ensure safety and manage the complexity of underground infrastructure, both customers and excavators should call 811 at least three business days before beginning any digging projects. Once a case is created and an appointment scheduled, professional locators will mark underground facilities with spray paint or flags to help prevent damage and injury.

“Safety is a core value for our thousands of Georgia Power team members working in our communities to serve customers every day,” said Rachel Williams, vice president of Transmission Field Operations at Georgia Power, and board member for Georgia 811. “We’re proud of our longstanding partnership with Georgia 811, and other partner utilities, to keep fellow Georgians safe. We hope this new PSA helps highlight the simple and straightforward service that can prevent service interruptions and serious injuries.”

“With the 8/11 date on the calendar serving as a timely reminder to contact 811 before digging, we are appreciative of our partnership with Georgia Power as they work to educate customers about safe digging. We are looking forward to featuring these PSAs on our websites, social media channels, digital outlets, and cable television,” shared Georgia 811 President and CEO Meghan Rafinski.

Georgia Power is celebrating 50 years of enhancing safety for Georgians through its long-standing partnership with Georgia 811. The company was one of the founding members of Georgia 811, alongside six other organizations, following a tragic 1968 incident that claimed several lives at a daycare in Hapeville, Georgia.

The first locate tickets were issued in 1974, and now, fifty years later, Georgia 811 has grown to include over 850 utility members and processes more than 1.3 million tickets annually. Georgia 811 continues to offer notification services and educational resources to promote the prevention of damage to underground utility facilities. You can learn more about the history of Georgia811 here.

To learn more, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com/Dig.

About Georgia Power
Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable, and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For Immediate Release

Aug. 8, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696

Georgia Power highlights diverse career opportunities in power plants during Generation Appreciation Month

Jobs available in Engineering, Maintenance, Operations and more

ATLANTA – August 8, 2024 – Every time a Georgia Power customer flips the light switch at their home or business, the energy delivered to power that light fixture started at a power generation facility. This August, the company is celebrating Generation Appreciation Month, a time to recognize the more than 1,100 team members who work tirelessly in power plants across state to keep reliable energy flowing to the grid on hot summer days, cold winter mornings and every hour in between. Throughout the month, Georgia Power invites customers, and potential employees, to explore the diverse nature of the Generation team’s work and the wide array of career opportunities for skilled workers.

“In life, as well as with Georgia Power’s power generation facilities, there is no one-size-fits-all option,” said Rick Anderson, senior vice president and senior production officer for Georgia Power. “From the existing facilities that have powered Georgia for decades, to newer sources of generation such as renewable energy, cleaner natural gas and battery storage, Georgia Power’s diverse generation mix continues to evolve to meet the needs of a growing Georgia. To keep the energy flowing, we need a workforce that is just as advanced and diverse.”

Based on available opportunities, a career in power generation offers many possibilities for those who join the team. Career paths exist in the areas of Operations, Maintenance, Electrical, Instrumentation, Engineering and more. Last year, the company hired over 80 team members across generation facilities and expects the hiring trend to continue in the coming years. Strong training programs exist in Operations, along with apprenticeships in Mechanical and Electrical, which develop experienced journeymen who work safely to keep energy flowing to the grid, 24/7.

Tobias Brown is a general plant operator at Plant McDonough-Atkinson, a combined cycle natural gas plant located just northwest of Atlanta. The plant is home to three generation units, which entered operation in 2012, and are capable of producing 2,520 megawatts of electricity and, on average, can supply enough energy to power approximately 1.7 million homes. The plant also is at the forefront of energy advancements, and recently hosted a major hydrogen fuel blending test as part of Georgia Power’s commitment to advancing clean energy (read more).

Brown started his career with Georgia Power in 2008 and discusses his experience in this video (link) alongside several of his colleagues at the plant.

“We all know we all play a big part in the success of this power plant – just knowing that you did your part gives me a sense of enjoyment,” said Brown. “It’s challenging, can be demanding at times, but it’s rewarding at the end.”

Generation careers involve continuous learning. These employees continue to train and learn throughout their career. Consider the Rockmart training facility where Electrical, Mechanical, and Instrumentation and Control Technicians hone their skills each year. In 2023, this facility conducted nearly 3,000 hours of both hands-on and classroom instruction. Subject matter experts from both Southern Company and external entities visited to assist in this cutting-edge training program.

Reliability for Georgia Power customers really starts in the company’s generation facilities. In 2023, the company’s generation fleet helped keep reliability high with experienced teams at hydro, natural gas, nuclear and coal-fired generation plants managing plant operations and maintenance activities at a level of excellence well above industry standards. Non-nuclear generation assets measure reliability with plant outage rate or “equivalent forced outage rate” (EFOR). Last year, Georgia Power’s EFOR score was among the best in company history and among the best in the industry, with an outage rate of 1.49%. Georgia Power also continues to add renewable energy and battery energy storage to its generation mix, with reliability at the center of its planning process, and the company’s existing solar generation performing strongly as well in 2023.

If you’re interested in a rewarding career with Georgia Power, and joining a dedicated team powering Georgia’s growing economy, visit this link to learn about opportunities and how to get started.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X(https://x.com/georgiapower ) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For Immediate Release

Aug. 5, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696

Georgia Power continues response to Tropical Storm Debby

100,000+ customers restored since start of storm, company reminds customers to be safe as storm clears

ATLANTA – August 6, 2024 – 11:45 a.m. – With tropical storm conditions continuing into Tuesday in parts of the state, Georgia Power is responding to service interruptions safely and quickly as possible. As of 11:30 AM, the company had restored more than 100,000 customers and is working on restoring approximately 11,000 customers currently impacted by the storm. Thousands of experienced personnel, both Georgia Power employees and workers from utilities outside of Georgia, remain in the field and behind the scenes assisting with restoration efforts. While restoration efforts continue, Georgia Power reminds customers to keep safety in mind with the following tips:

Never touch any downed or low-hanging wire, including telephone or cable wires that touch a power line.
Never pull tree limbs off power lines yourself or enter areas with debris, downed trees or flooding, as power lines may be buried in the wreckage or submerged in standing water.
Call 911, local authorities, or Georgia Power immediately if you see a fallen or low-hanging power line.
If you see crews working while you are driving, please move over to give them room to work.

The Power Restoration Process

Georgia Power’s goal is to work safely and efficiently to restore service to every affected customer as quickly as possible. Georgia Power restoration crews working to restore power for customers in Georgia’s southern and coastal regions continue to face heavy rainfall.

The first step in power restoration after a storm event is damage assessment, which occurs both remotely and in the field, and which customers may see in progress as weather conditions begin to allow. Once it is safe to do so, damage assessment teams will survey damaged areas to determine what tools, resources, and supplies are needed to restore power most efficiently to the largest amount of customers. Next, a restoration team will get to work to make the repairs based on this assessment.

For crews to work safely in bucket trucks and high positions, winds must be below 30 MPH. We are continuously monitoring these conditions as well as managing challenges like impassable roads due to flooding, downed trees, and debris.

Georgia Power continues to make investments in the state’s electric grid to minimize the duration and frequency of power outages. These investments include smart grid technology and automated systems that have helped the company restore service to tens of thousands of customers very quickly following Tropical Storm Debby by reenergizing lines remotely or rerouting power around damage where possible to minimize those affected.

The company is committed to keeping customers informed and offers a variety of tools, such as Outage Alerts and its mobile app. Additional resources available at GeorgiaPower.com/Storm include multiple tips and links to additional tools.

Tools You Can Use to Stay Connected & Informed

Outage Alerts – Customers subscribed to our free Georgia Power Outage Alert service will receive personalized notifications and updates via text message. Check that your contact number is up to date to receive the latest information.
Outage & Storm Center – Available at www.GeorgiaPower.com/Storm, customers can visit this site to check their contact information is updated to receive Outage Alerts, report and check the status of outages, and access useful safety tips and information. Customers can also report and check the status of an outage 24 hours a day by contacting Georgia Power at 888-891-0938.
Outage Map – Housed within the Outage & Storm Center site, Georgia Power’s interactive Outage Map provides near real-time information, allowing users to see where outages are occurring across the state and track estimated restoration times.
Georgia Power Mobile App – Download the Georgia Power mobile app for Apple and Android devices to access storm and outage information on the go.
@GeorgiaPower on X (Twitter) – Follow @GeorgiaPower at www.X.com/GeorgiaPowerfor storm tips, outage updates, customer service and more.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For Immediate Release

Aug. 5, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696

Georgia Power mobilizes restoration teams as Hurricane Debby impacts Georgia

Company urges customers to stay safe and to be prepared to potentially be without power due to severe weather

ATLANTA – August 5, 2024 – 10:30 a.m. – As Hurricane Debby strengthened in the Gulf of Mexico over the weekend, Georgia Power continued preparation to respond to potential damage and power outages. While the exact track and intensity of the hurricane are still uncertain, the company has resources in place and will adjust its plans as the hurricane nears the state to ensure a safe and effective response. The National Hurricane Center forecasts high winds, heavy rainfall, flash flooding and possible tornadoes.

As part of its preparations, Georgia Power mobilized additional staff to respond to potential outages and damages to its system. The company has mobilized and relocated crews to specific sites that pre-position restoration workers, equipment and supplies near areas of anticipated impact. It also deployed its Mobile Command Center, a tractor trailer which offers additional coordination capabilities during major weather events, to the southern part of the state. All of this helps the company to restore power more quickly and efficiently for its customers as soon as weather conditions allow.

Customers are asked to be aware that hurricanes have the potential to cause widespread power outages and dangerous conditions. Emergency plans should be finalized, including a way to stay informed before, during and after the hurricane. It’s important to follow the advice of federal, state and local authorities, especially for people living in low-lying areas as flooding and heavy rain are expected.

The company is committed keeping customers informed and offers a variety of tools, such as Outage Alerts and its mobile app. Additional resources available at GeorgiaPower.com/Storm include multiple tips and links to additional tools.

Tools You Can Use to Stay Connected & Informed

Outage Alerts – Customers subscribed to our free Georgia Power Outage Alert service will receive personalized notifications and updates via text message. Check that your contact number is up to date to receive the latest information.

Outage & Storm Center – Available at www.GeorgiaPower.com/Storm, customers can visit this site to check their contact information is updated to receive Outage Alerts, report and check the status of outages, and access useful safety tips and information. Customers can also report and check the status of an outage 24 hours a day by contacting Georgia Power at 888-891-0938.
Outage Map – Housed within the Outage & Storm Center site, Georgia Power’s interactive Outage Map provides near real-time information, allowing users to see where outages are occurring across the state and track estimated restoration times.
Georgia Power Mobile App – Download the Georgia Power mobile app for Apple and Android devices to access storm and outage information on the go.
@GeorgiaPower on X (Twitter) – Follow @GeorgiaPower at www.X.com/GeorgiaPower for storm tips, outage updates, customer service and more.

Before, During and After a Storm Safety Tips

Before a Storm: Stay aware, heed advise from officials, and check the weather forecast before heading outdoors. Check your emergency kit and family plan. Unplug major appliances and charge cell phones in case you lose power.
During a Storm: Take safe shelter inside a sturdy building away from windows and doors. Avoid contact with conductors of electricity – appliances, metal objects and water.
After a Storm: Never touch any downed or low-hanging wire, including telephone or TV wires that touch a power line. Never pull tree limbs off of power lines yourself or enter areas with debris or downed trees as downed power lines may be buried in wreckage. Customers should call 911 or Georgia Power immediately if they see a fallen or low-hanging power line.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For immediate release

Aug. 5, 2024

Contact: Kim Broun, kim.broun@georgiaemc.com, 770-270-6990

EMCs stand ready for the impact of Hurricane Debby

TUCKER, Ga., Aug. 5, 2024, 10:00 AM)—As Hurricane Debby makes landfall as a Category 1 storm on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Georgia’s Electric Membership Corporations (EMCs) stand ready for its impact.

Hurricane Debby is predicted to enter Georgia at 2 p.m. on Monday in the southern central part of the state moving northeast as she heads to the southeast coast. With sustained winds of from 39-73mph and heavy rains, power outages are imminent.

“Our forecasters predicted an above average hurricane season, and our EMCs have been preparing in advance for several weeks,” said Harry Reeves, vice president of training and safety at Georgia EMC. “We’ve used our time wisely since we began monitoring Hurricane Debby last week, and EMCs in the storm’s path have enacted their proven storm response plans, taking the necessary steps to prepare for the storm.”

EMCs have mobilized all key personnel and additional contract crews, prepared trucks with emergency equipment and increased supplies of materials that could be needed should the effects of the storm become severe. Key staff members have also been in contact with other emergency service providers, including EMAs, police, fire and public works.

At the same time, EMCs have been in regular contact with other electric cooperatives across the state and country to arrange for help and additional support. Several cooperatives from the northern part of the state are headed south to assist with power restoration.

Forecasters predict the storm will slow on Tuesday and stall as it reaches Georgia’s coast by Wednesday. This is expected to create a historic rainfall and flooding event in southeast Georgia, particularly for areas within 50 miles of Savannah, with rainfall totals reaching a predicted 12-20 inches of rain.

Gov. Brian Kemp issued a State of Emergency in all 159 counties. The emergency declaration makes all state resources available to local governments and entities within the impacted area of the hurricane. Officials are warning residents along in the path to be prepared for life-threatening storm surge, hurricane-force winds, and heavy rains which could lead to flash flooding. Reeves says residents should heed the advice of local officials and be assured that all electric cooperatives across the state are prepared and ready to restore service.

EMCs will continue to watch Hurricane Debby closely and remind members to keep abreast of the storm’s development and take every precaution in the event the state experiences its effects. Stay informed by visiting https://gema.georgia.gov/ and https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/.

Outage Information:
A map showing current outages by region, updated every 15 minutes, can be found at http://www.georgiaemc.com/outages. To report power outages and gain more detailed power outages and restoration updates, customers should contact their local EMC.

For Immediate Release

Aug. 2, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Power Media Relations
404-506-7676 or 800-282-1696

Georgia Power monitoring, prepared to respond to potential tropical storm

Company encourages customers to prepare for severe weather expected next week

ATLANTA – August 2, 2024 – Georgia Power is monitoring the forecast and expected path of what is anticipated to be Tropical Storm Debby and is prepared to respond to damage and potential power outages that could be caused by damaging winds, heavy rain, excessive lightning and hail. While the path of the storm may change, the company has resources in place and will adjust its plans as the storm nears the state to ensure a safe and effective response.

Georgia Power reminds customers to stay safe and take steps this weekend to be prepared as well. The company is committed to connecting with customers before, during and after severe weather, and offers a variety of ways to help them stay informed. Resources available at GeorgiaPower.com/Storm include multiple tips and links to additional tools.

Before, During and After a Storm Safety Tips

Before a Storm: Stay aware, heed advise from officials, and check the weather forecast before heading outdoors. Check your emergency kit and family plan. Unplug major appliances and charge cell phones in case you lose power.
During a Storm: Take safe shelter inside a sturdy building away from windows and doors. Avoid contact with conductors of electricity – appliances, metal objects and water.
After a Storm: Never touch any downed or low-hanging wire, including telephone or TV wires that touch a power line. Never pull tree limbs off of power lines yourself or enter areas with debris or downed trees as downed power lines may be buried in wreckage. Customers should call 911 or Georgia Power immediately if they see a fallen or low-hanging power line.

Tools You Can Use to Stay Connected & Informed

Outage Alerts – Customers subscribed to our free Georgia Power Outage Alert service will receive personalized notifications and updates via text message. Check that your contact number is up to date to receive the latest information.

Outage & Storm Center – Available at www.GeorgiaPower.com/Storm, customers can visit this site to check their contact information is updated to receive Outage Alerts, report and check the status of outages, and access useful safety tips and information. Customers can also report and check the status of an outage 24 hours a day by contacting Georgia Power at 888-891-0938.
Outage Map – Housed within the Outage & Storm Center site, Georgia Power’s interactive Outage Map provides near real-time information, allowing users to see where outages are occurring across the state and track estimated restoration times.
Georgia Power Mobile App – Download the Georgia Power mobile app for Apple andAndroid devices to access storm and outage information on the go.
@GeorgiaPower on X (Twitter) – Follow @GeorgiaPower atwww.X.com/GeorgiaPower for storm tips, outage updates, customer service and more.

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.7 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.comand connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (Twitter.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

For Immediate Release

July 31, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia 811
Megan Estes, mestes@Georgia811.com

Aug. 11 (8/11) reminds Georgia residents to contact 811 before digging to protect themselves and their communities

Georgia 811 encourages homeowners and professionals to make a free request three business days before digging to avoid damaging buried utilities

Duluth, GA (Aug. 1, 2024) – August 11 is almost here, and Georgia 811 hopes that the 8/11 date on the calendar will serve as a natural reminder for residents to contact 811 prior to any digging project to have underground utility lines marked. Every few minutes an underground utility line is damaged because someone decided to dig without first contacting 811, which can lead to utility outages, expensive repairs or catastrophic consequences.

When contacting 811, homeowners and contractors are connected to Georgia 811, the statewide 811 center, which notifies the appropriate utility companies of their intent to dig. Professional locators then arrive at the digging site to mark the approximate locations of underground lines with flags and/or spray paint. Every digging project, no matter how large or small, requires contacting 811 to ensure underground utilities have been marked before digging.

Striking a single utility line can cause repair costs, inconvenient outages, fines, severe injuries and can even cause fatalities. Every digging project warrants contacting 811 by phone or online. From building a deck to planting a tree, every digging project requires a free 811 request at least a few days before breaking ground.

“On Aug. 11 and throughout the year, we remind homeowners and professional contractors alike to use the free 811 service before digging to reduce the risk of striking an underground utility line,” said Meghan Rafiniski, President and CEO of Georgia 811. “Calling 811 or submitting a ticket at Georgia811.com is the only way to know which utilities are buried in your area so that you can dig safely and keep your community safe and connected.”

On August 11, and all year long, take the following steps when planning a digging project:

Always contact 811 at least three business days before digging, regardless of the depth or familiarity with the property.
Plan ahead. Make a free 811 request on Monday or Tuesday for work planned for an upcoming weekend, providing ample time for the approximate location of lines to be marked.
Confirm that all lines have been marked.
Consider moving the location of the project if it is near utility line markings.
If a contractor has been hired, confirm that the contractor has contacted 811. Don’t allow work to begin if the lines aren’t marked.

Visit www.Georgia811.com for more information about 811 and safe digging practices.

For Immediate Release

July 25, 2024

CONTACT: Georgia Cotton Commission
Caroline Gentry, 478-357-1747, caroline@georgiacotton.org

2023 Georgia Quality Cotton Award Winners Announced

* Photos of award winners are available by contacting Caroline Gentry

The 2023 Georgia Quality Cotton Awards were presented at the 2024 Georgia Cotton Commission Mid-Year Meeting on July 24, 2024. The awards are co-sponsored by the Georgia Cotton Commission and Bayer Crop Science/Deltapine and administered by the University of Georgia (UGA) Cotton Team. Yangxuan Liu from the UGA Cotton Team conducted the analysis and presented the awards at the event in Statesboro.

The purpose of the awards is to recognize producers and ginners of high-quality cotton fiber and to identify their general management practices for the benefit of other growers. The producers and their gins received a plaque, and the winning producers received a $500 cash award. The UGA County Extension Agent for each winner was also recognized as they work closely with the farmers during the growing season.

The awards are given in each of these three cotton acreage categories: 1) less than 500 acres, 2) 500 to 1,000 acres, and 3) greater than 1,000 acres within the four regions of the state. Winners in these categories are determined by the loan value and premiums of their cotton. The winners’ excellent achievements are due largely to their management practices and expertise. The sponsors of this program congratulate the following winners:

Region 1

Less than 500 acres
- Grower – MGB Farms, Pulaski County
- Ginner – Heart of Georgia Peanut & Gin, Hawkinsville
- Nominated by – Jay Porter
500-1000 acres
- Grower – Melissa Cape Farms, Pulaski County
- Ginner – Heart of Georgia Peanut & Gin, Hawkinsville
- Nominated by – Jay Porter
1000+ acres
- Grower – WB Cape Farms, Pulaski County
- Ginner – Heart of Georgia Peanut & Gin, Hawkinsville
- Nominated by – Jay Porter

Region 2

Less than 500 acres
- Grower – Dickens Farms, Inc., Oconee County
- Ginner – Bostwick Gin, Bostwick
- Nominated by – Carsen Dean & Lucy Ray
500-1000 acres
- Grower – Bill Godowns, Jefferson County
- Ginner – Farmer’s Gin and Storage, Wadley
- Nominated by – Pamela Sapp
1000+ acres
- Grower – Dean Johnson, Burke County
- Ginner – Bryant’s Inc., Bartow
- Nominated by – Cliff Collins & Peyton Sapp

Region 3

Less than 500 acres
- Grower – Tommy Kenny, TFK In. Farms, Lowndes County
- Ginner – B.C.T. Gin Company, Inc., Quitman
- Nominated by – Joshua Dawson
500-1000 acres
- Grower – Lee and Cole Ballard Farms, Brooks County
- Ginner – B.C.T. Gin Company, Inc., Quitman
- Nominated by – Will Brown
1000+ acres
- Grower – Johnson Farms, Cook County
- Ginner – B.C.T. Gin Company, Inc., Quitman
- Nominated by – Tucker Price

Region 4

Less than 500 acres
- Grower – Jonathan Hart, Thomas County
- Ginner – Boston Gin, Boston
- Nominated by – Sydni Ingram & Michasia Dowdy
500-1000 acres
- Grower – Patterson Farms, Worth County
- Ginner – Worth Gin & Warehouse, Inc., Sylvester
- Nominated by – Scott Carlson
1000+ acres
- Grower – M & G Farms, Worth County
- Ginner – Worth Gin & Warehouse, Inc., Sylvester
- Nominated by – Scott Carlson

The final award given was the overall Best Cotton Award. This was awarded to the Georgia cotton producer with highest loan value and premium. The 2023 Best Cotton Award went to Oconee County’s Dickens Farm, Inc. with a loan value of 57.81 cents/lb and a premium of 5.81 cents/lb.

For Immediate Release

July 22, 2024

CONTACT: Theresa Markwalter
1-899-271-7217
ireach3@mailbox.sc.edu

University of South Carolina and University of Virginia enrolling rural residents for online management loss study

University of Virginia School of Medicine researchers, together with colleagues at the University of South Carolina, have received a grant from the National Institutes of Health to determine if online behavioral weight-management programs for rural residents can be improved by adding a human touch. The goal is to help residents of rural areas, where in-person weight-loss programs can be scarce.

People living in rural areas experience significantly higher rates of both obesity and chronic illnesses associated with obesity. Many rural areas also have an increasing lack of access to healthcare resources. So finding better ways to help rural residents manage their weight could have big benefits for both individuals and society. “Weight loss of as little as 5% to 7% can reduce obesity-associated co-morbidities,” said UVA researcher Becca Krukowski, PhD, one of the principal investigators. “Although lifestyle interventions successfully produce weight losses of this magnitude, access to weight management programs is limited in rural areas. This study will examine how digital interventions can be optimized for delivering weight loss programs to rural populations.”

More than 600 volunteer participants will be enrolled in a core online 24-week weight-loss program and randomly assigned to receive one of two forms of feedback on their self-monitoring efforts, as well as potentially receiving additional components including weekly group video sessions and individual coaching calls. The study is currently enrolling the last few participants for a group starting in August 2024 and will continue accepting applications for future start dates through the end of 2025.

Ultimately, Krukowski and her team hope their research will lead to optimized online weight-loss programs that will be more accessible to rural residents than in-person programs. That would increase the public-health benefits of the programs and will inform public health policy decisions such as whether the programs should be covered by Medicare, Medicaid and other health insurance companies.

“The iREACH study is an exciting opportunity for rural residents to have access to a cutting-edge behavioral weight loss program and also contribute to science,” Krukowski said. Over the next year and a half, she and her collaborators will enroll and provide the iREACH program for a total of 616 men and women, with the goal of determining which approach, or which combination of approaches, is most effective at promoting weight loss and subsequent weight maintenance.

The trial is IRB No. HSR220408. For more information, visit https://www.ireachstudy.org/ or call 1-866-271-7217, or email the study coordinator, Theresa Markwalter, at ireach3@mailbox.sc.edu.

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