Georgia Power has released a draft request for proposals (RFP) seeking 500 MW of energy storage projects capable of discharging for at least two hours. The resources may be standalone or paired with new or existing renewable generation.

According to the draft, projects must come online no earlier than 2028 and no later than the end of 2031, with preference given to those operational by November 28, 2031. Proposals are due in January 2026, pending regulatory approval of the RFP documents expected in December. Contract execution is anticipated about a year later.

The solicitation is part of Georgia Power's 2022 Integrated Resource Plan, approved by the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC), which includes expanded renewable generation and battery capacity. Earlier this month, the PSC approved five new power purchase agreements for utility-scale solar totaling 1,068 MW.

The storage RFP will be administered by Ascend Analytics as the independent evaluator. Eligible facilities must be interconnected with the Southern Company transmission system, Georgia Power's parent company.

Georgia Power already operates a 65 MW battery system at Mossy Branch in Talbot County, which entered service in 2024. Another 765 MW of storage is authorized and expected online in 2026.

In a statement, the utility said battery storage will "play a critical role in the power grid of the future, improving reliability and advancing sustainability."

Source: utilitydive.com