Atlanta-based Georgia Power has launched what the utility says is its latest program to help grow renewable energy in Georgia: C&I REDI. The program is available to commercial and industrial (C&I) customers under the Renewable Energy Development Initiative (REDI), which was developed in coordination with and approved by the Georgia Public Service Commission in 2016. Through the voluntary program, participating customers will receive hourly credits matching actual production as well as the solar renewable energy credits (RECs) from up to 200 MW of renewable resources procured under REDI.
“We are focused on creating pioneering programs and services that meet the changing energy needs of our customers, including the increasing need for many commercial and industrial customers to meet sustainability goals,” says Wilson Mallard, director of renewable development at Georgia Power. “This new program will provide a new renewable energy option for larger customers, while also benefiting all of our customers through further diversification of our state’s generation mix.”
According to Georgia Power, the utility’s robust renewable development strategy includes customer programs such as Simple Solar, as well as large-scale initiatives such as the Advanced Solar Initiative (ASI) and REDI. With nearly 900 MW of solar capacity online, the utility lays claim to one of largest voluntary renewable portfolios in the nation, with accelerating growth year over year since 2013. Through continued expansion of solar at Georgia military bases, implementation of the new REDI, as well as other solar projects and programs, the company expects to add up to 1,600 MW of additional renewable capacity by 2021.
Interested C&I customers are encouraged to subscribe to C&I REDI through a Notice of Intent Application process that will close on Sept. 25. C&I customers will sign a 10- to 30- year contract based on their preference. The hourly credits will be based on Georgia Power’s actual hourly cost of incremental generation (avoided cost). To qualify, a customer must have an aggregate 2016 peak demand of 3 MW or greater (aggregated accounts must be under common ownership and control). Additional information on the program is available here.
