Georgia Power has been awarded over $160 million by the Department of Energy (DOE) to enhance the state's electric grid. This funding, part of the DOE's Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) Program, aims to improve the flexibility and resilience of Georgia's power transmission system, focusing on protecting the grid against extreme weather events and ensuring reliable access to electricity.

Fran Forehand, senior vice president of Transmission for Georgia Power, emphasized the importance of the funding in providing "energy resilience and reliability" while keeping energy costs manageable. The investment supports the company's long-term goals to modernize the grid as Georgia continues to experience population growth and increased energy demand.

The funding will help Georgia Power deploy advanced technologies such as dynamic line rating systems and new conductors to improve transmission capacity. These upgrades will not only enhance the reliability of the grid but also help integrate more renewable energy sources, like solar power, into the state's energy mix. Georgia Power's investments will also benefit disadvantaged communities through job creation and clean energy opportunities.

Several local organizations, including the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the Georgia Minority Supplier Development Council, supported Georgia Power's application for the GRIP program.