Why Biomass Remains a Challenge, Even in Timber-rich Georgia

A new biomass plant under construction in Georgia highlights the challenging economics of the technology, even in a state so rich in forestry waste it exports it to other countries.

The 50-MW Albany Green plant — the largest renewable energy project in the state so far — is a unique collaboration among Georgia Power, private companies (including Procter & Gamble) and a nearby Marine base. While the cost for biomass generated electricity is too high to compete with wind and solar, the project also produces steam for industrial use, which improves its economics.

Behind the Quiet State-by-State Fight Over Electric Vehicles

When Georgia repealed its generous $5,000 tax credit on electric vehicles in July 2015, and instead slapped a $200 registration fee on electric cars, sales quickly tumbled.

In the month before the repeal, nearly 1,300 electric vehicles were sold in the state. By August, those sales had all but evaporated — to just 97 cars.

Georgia Power Set to Make Push into Hot Ga. Rooftop Solar Market

Southern Co.'s Georgia Power is poised to take advantage of a new state law that would allow the utility and other solar providers to get into the rooftop solar market more easily.

The move comes shortly after the state Legislature passed a law that lets Georgians enter into long-term financing arrangements with independent solar power providers, propping open the door for a competitive solar market. For Georgia Power, it marks an opportunity for the dominant utility to get into the rooftop solar business.

Ga. Senate could consider proposal designed to encourage more renewable energy investment

Georgia lawmakers have introduced legislation designed to encourage private investment in renewable energy sources like solar power.

Supporters of Senate Bill 401 say it is designed to allow customers and firms to use common financing mechanisms to fund new power generation facilities.

They say the bill could help Georgia boost the number of solar panels and other renewable energy sources across the state.