As temperatures rise, so does your electric bill. This summer, Georgia Power customers are experiencing a double hit: the usual seasonal increase in cooling costs, plus an additional charge following the completion of the Plant Vogtle expansion.
Channel 2’s Christian Jennings reported from Cobb County on Friday, where local families are adjusting to these higher costs. With the activation of Plant Vogtle’s fourth unit on May 1, Georgia Power implemented a 5% rate increase. This means customers are now dealing with the increased expenses of cooling their homes and the added financial burden from the new nuclear plant charges.
John Kraft, a spokesperson for Georgia Power, provided more details on the rate hike. He noted that the average household will see an increase of about nine dollars per month. Kraft highlighted the benefits of the new nuclear unit, saying, “It’s a clean energy source, the largest in the nation with stable fuel costs and lots of benefits. It provides power around the clock to our customers.”
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To help customers manage their rising energy bills, Georgia Power recommends a few practical strategies. Keeping your home at 78 degrees with fans running can significantly reduce cooling costs. Additionally, unplugging electronic devices when not in use and regularly changing air filters can help improve energy efficiency and lower bills.
While the immediate financial impact of the Vogtle expansion may be challenging for some, the long-term benefits include a more stable and sustainable energy supply. The new nuclear units are designed to provide reliable power with minimal environmental impact, contributing to Georgia’s clean energy goals.