Electric Municipalities In Georgia: How Many Exist?

how many electric municipalities are in georgia

Georgia has 52 municipally-owned electric systems, which are regulated by the Commission along with 41 electric membership corporations. Electric Cities of Georgia (ECG) is an organization that provides strategic and technical services to communities with utility operations. ECG has offices in Atlanta, Georgia, and held a board meeting in 2024 in conjunction with the ECG Engineering & Operations Conference.

Characteristics Values
Number of electric municipalities 52
Number of electric membership corporations 41
Number of counties served by Georgia Power Company 155
Total number of counties in Georgia 159
Organization providing strategic and technical services to communities with utility operations Electric Cities of Georgia (ECG)

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Georgia has 52 municipally-owned electric systems

The Electric Cities of Georgia (ECG) provides strategic and technical services to communities with utility operations and has offices in Atlanta. 49 municipalities are affiliated with the Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia (MEAG).

The Commission has limited regulatory authority over the EMCs and municipally-owned electric systems. However, it plays a crucial role in resolving territorial disputes and customer complaints, as well as approving requests for the transfer of retail electric suppliers.

Georgia's electric industry is traditionally regulated, and the Georgia Territorial Electric Service Act of 1973 allows eligible customers a one-time choice in their electric supplier and the opportunity to transfer between suppliers with the agreement of all parties.

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Georgia Power Company serves 2.7 million customers

Georgia Power Company (GPC) is an investor-owned electric utility company that serves approximately 2.7 million customers in 155 of Georgia's 159 counties. GPC is the largest electric utility in the Southern Company family, which serves 9 million customers through its subsidiaries.

GPC's vision is focused on the future, with the company investing in and planning for Georgia's continued economic growth and energy needs. The company's 2025 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) aims to provide clean, safe, reliable, and affordable energy to Georgians well into the future. This includes investing in charitable causes, with $33 million contributed towards such initiatives.

GPC's commitment to its customers is evident through its proactive planning, policies, and processes. The company strives to make smart investments today to meet its customers' needs tomorrow. GPC's renewable development team is working to ensure the company remains at the forefront of the utility industry, providing access to clean and safe energy for its customers.

GPC's dedication to its customers and communities is further demonstrated through its nearly 7000 employees, who are committed to empowering their home state and communities. From line crews and customer service representatives to engineers and truck drivers, GPC recognizes the importance of its people in delivering on its promises.

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Georgia's 41 Electric Membership Corporations

Georgia has 41 Electric Membership Corporations (EMCs) that are member-owned, not-for-profit utilities. Together, they serve approximately 4.4 million of Georgia's 10 million residents, which equates to about 73% of the state's land area. The EMCs employ over 6,000 workers and operate the largest distribution network in the state, with 196,921 miles of electric power lines.

EMCs in Georgia have existed since at least 1981, and their duration is perpetual unless stated otherwise in their articles of incorporation. They have the right to acquire rights of way, easements, and interests in realty to achieve their purposes.

The Georgia Electric Membership Corporation (Georgia EMC) provides leadership and unity through advocacy, education, and communications.

While the Commission has limited regulatory authority over the 41 EMCs, Georgia Power Company (GPC), an investor-owned electric utility, is fully regulated by the Commission. GPC serves around 2.7 million customers in 155 of Georgia's 159 counties.

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Georgia Municipal Association's online resources

Georgia has 52 municipally-owned electric systems, and the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) provides online resources and support for municipal officials in key areas of local governance. The GMA website offers a range of publications and handbooks that provide practical guidance and insights to city officials and employees.

One of the key resources is the "Handbook for Georgia Mayors and Councilmembers", which covers various topics, including gas and electric systems. This handbook provides an overview of the laws and regulations related to the manufacturing, distribution, and sale of alcoholic beverages at the local level. It empowers local governments with knowledge about their broad powers, including the authority to issue, suspend, or revoke licenses.

Another important publication is the "Guide to Budgeting and Tax Equity". This practical guide assists municipal officials in evaluating tax equity and determining whether residents are being subjected to double taxation for services. It includes clear definitions of budgeting terms, explains the roles of stakeholders in the budget process, and offers a step-by-step guide to developing a municipal budget.

The GMA also provides an "Online Resource for City Clerks". This resource recognises that while the job functions of city clerks may vary across Georgia's 537 cities, there are common duties and responsibilities. The guide covers essential topics such as managing city records and administering employee benefits, ensuring that city clerks have the support and knowledge they need to effectively serve their communities.

Additionally, the GMA offers a publication on "Georgia's Open Meetings and Records Laws". This resource ensures compliance with Georgia's legislative mandates by providing cities with the information and tools they need to adhere to open meetings and records laws. It includes narratives, checklists, frequently asked questions, and sample forms, making it a comprehensive guide for local governments.

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Electric Cities of Georgia provides strategic and technical services

Electric Cities of Georgia (ECG) provides strategic and technical services to communities with utility operations. ECG, with offices in Atlanta, serves Georgia's 52 municipally-owned electric systems.

Georgia has 41 electric membership corporations (EMCs) and 52 municipally-owned electric systems. The Georgia Power Company (GPC) serves approximately 2.7 million customers in 155 of Georgia's 159 counties.

ECG provides support to communities with utility operations, helping them to navigate the complex world of energy supply and demand. ECG offers a range of services, including engineering and operations support, as evidenced by the ECG Engineering & Operations Conference.

ECG also provides strategic guidance to municipalities, helping them to make smart investments in their energy infrastructure and plan for the future. This includes support with regulatory compliance, as Georgia's electric industry is traditionally regulated, with the Commission having limited authority over the EMCs and municipally-owned systems.

Additionally, ECG offers technical services, likely including the implementation and maintenance of energy systems, ensuring that communities have access to clean, safe, reliable, and affordable energy.

Frequently asked questions

There are 52 municipally-owned electric systems in Georgia.

Georgia Power Company (GPC) is the main electric utility company in Georgia, serving approximately 2.7 million customers in 155 of Georgia's 159 counties.

Yes, there are 41 electric membership corporations (EMCs) in Georgia, in addition to the 52 municipally-owned electric systems.

The Commission has regulatory authority over the EMCs and municipally-owned electric systems in Georgia. It resolves territorial disputes and customer complaints and approves requests for the transfer of retail electric suppliers.

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