Georgia Aims to Increase Solar Power Storage Capacity
Utilities, cities, local businesses, and academic institutions in Georgia are collaboratively working towards transforming the state’s abundant solar energy into a reliable, 24/7 power source. This initiative marks a significant shift in Georgia’s energy landscape, which has traditionally been reliant on fossil fuels.
Georgia Power, the state’s primary utility company, laid the groundwork for this transition with its pioneering project in Social Circle. On a sprawling 150-acre site, the company installed thousands of solar panels, marking its first venture into large-scale solar power generation. This project was not just a milestone for Georgia Power but also a sign of the state’s growing commitment to renewable energy. Today, Georgia is recognized as one of the top ten states in the U.S. for installed solar capacity.
The current focus of utilities, cities, and other stakeholders is to enhance the utility of solar power by making it a consistent energy source, day and night. The solution lies in the deployment of large-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS). These massive clusters of batteries are designed to store solar energy, thereby converting solar power from an intermittent to a continuous and dependable energy source. This effort aligns with the national climate objectives set by the Biden administration, which is actively promoting the expansion of solar power and battery infrastructure through substantial grants and tax credits.
In a significant development last year, Freyr Battery, a Norwegian clean-tech startup, announced its plan to invest $2.6 billion in building a battery factory in Coweta County. This facility is intended to manufacture batteries specifically for storing solar-generated power. While the company has yet to commence construction, it anticipates starting production by the end of 2026.
This collective movement towards solar energy and battery storage is not just about meeting energy demands; it’s also about positioning Georgia at the forefront of the clean energy revolution. By investing in solar and storage technologies, Georgia is not only reducing its dependence on fossil fuels but also contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future. The state’s efforts in this direction are expected to play a crucial role in meeting both local and national energy and climate goals, setting a precedent for other states to follow.
