Georgia regulators to vote on controversial biomass energy plan

Georgia Power's proposal to burn wood for energy has sparked debate over costs and pollution ahead of a key vote by state regulators.

Stanley Dunlap reports for Georgia Recorder.

In short:

• The Georgia Public Service Commission will vote on a proposal to add 80 megawatts of biomass-fueled power, with critics citing pollution and high costs.
• Environmental groups and consumer advocates argue the plan will lead to higher electricity bills, with costs estimated to be several times higher than other new energy sources.
• Supporters, including the Georgia Forestry Association, claim the biomass plan offers economic benefits and helps manage tree debris from storms like Hurricane Michael.

Key quote:

“The price of one unit of energy from the Altamaha PPA, it looks like it’s well over three times the avoided cost, or the economic value of a unit of this energy.”

— Aradhana Chandra, attorney with the Southern Environmental Law Center

Why this matters:

The decision could set a precedent for future energy projects in Georgia, affecting both environmental outcomes and utility costs for residents.

For more:

• Paris climate agreement overlooks wood pellet loophole
• LISTEN: Carlos Gould on global energy poverty and indoor air pollution
• Clean energy grows, but many of the poorest remain in the dark.