Ossoff looks into Ga. data centers’ impact on power bills

U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) has initiated an investigation into the potential impact of AI data centers on electricity bills for residents across Georgia. His inquiry, directed to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Chair Laura Swett, seeks responses by June 1 regarding this issue. The investigation comes amidst a significant boom in AI-related venture capital investments in Georgia, totaling over $4.5 billion since 2019, including planned data centers in Columbia, Richmond, and McDuffie counties. This growth is driving a massive demand for electricity. In December 2025, the Georgia Public Service Commission approved Georgia Power's plan to produce 9,885 MW of new energy, primarily to serve "new large customers such as data centers." Senator Ossoff expressed concern that without proper safeguards, increased generation costs and higher prices could be passed on to Georgia families, who are already struggling with high power bills.