Georgia PSC chairman defends data center power expansion

Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) Chairman Jason Shaw is defending a controversial December decision to allocate nearly 10,000 megawatts of power, primarily for data centers. This move has been labeled as the "number one issue" in Georgia due to the rapid expansion of data center development across the state. The five-member elected board, which regulates Georgia's public utilities, unanimously approved the power expansion. The decision has faced considerable backlash, with opponents being escorted out during the PSC vote. Last month, two new Democratic commissioners appealed for a reconsideration of the approved grid expansion, which allocates 58% to natural gas and 42% to battery and solar, but their effort was blocked. Chairman Shaw, despite the pressure, affirmed the PSC's decision, stating that Georgia is poised to capitalize on the data center boom, particularly benefiting rural counties. Shaw acknowledged concerns, particularly the risk of these significant power loads not materializing. However, he noted that prospective large-load companies, including data centers, have quadrupled their potential projects to over 69,000 megawatts in the last three years. To safeguard everyday Georgia Power customers from bearing the costs, Shaw emphasized "guard rails," including requirements for data centers to sign 15-year contracts, pay transmission fees, and fund cost analysis studies before construction. He expressed confidence that these measures ensure data centers pay "more than their fair share." Patrick Quinn of Atlanta News First reported on the interview with Shaw, which also touched upon the state's commitment to natural gas and calls for greater transparency regarding data center contracts.