The Issues
A Strategic Vision for Georgia’s Energy
1. Prioritizing Household Affordability
The Goal: Keeping Costs Manageable for Georgia Families. Recent years have seen significant utility rate increases that place a heavy burden on our families and small businesses. My priority is to move from a “reactive” commission to a “proactive” one that emphasizes cost-containment.
- Responsible Oversight: I will advocate for rigorous reviews of infrastructure costs to ensure that shareholders, not just ratepayers, share the responsibility for project overruns.
- Expanded Efficiency Incentives: I will champion robust weatherization programs and “smart” billing options that empower you to lower your own bill through energy efficiency.
- Equitable Contributions: As Georgia attracts new industries and data centers, I will work to ensure these large-scale users contribute their fair share to grid maintenance, preventing an undue burden on residential customers.
2. Building a Modern, Diversified Grid
The Goal: Energy Independence Through Innovation. Georgia’s economic success depends on a reliable and forward-looking energy portfolio. By diversifying our energy sources, we protect our state from volatile fuel prices and create a more resilient grid.
- Championing Renewables: I will support the cost-effective expansion of solar, battery storage, and net metering. These technologies are no longer “alternative”—they are essential tools for a stable and affordable grid.
- Protecting Our Resources: Our land, canopies, and water are vital to our health and our economy. I will advocate for grid considerations that respect our green spaces and minimize environmental impact.
- Responsible Data Center Growth: I will push for clear standards and environmental monitoring for data center developments—ensuring they are good neighbors that respect the noise, water, and air quality of the surrounding community.
3. Restoring Public Trust & Transparency
The Goal: A Commission That Listens to Every Georgian. The Public Service Commission works for you. I believe the best decisions are made when they are rooted in data and informed by the people they impact.
- Open Public Forums: I am committed to holding regular public forums across all regions of Georgia—from the coast to the mountains—to ensure your specific regional concerns are heard.
- Data-Driven Decisions: My approach will be to follow the research, listen to expert staff recommendations, and carefully analyze public testimony before casting a vote.
- Process Education: I will work to make the commission’s decision-making process transparent and accessible, so that every Georgian understands how their energy future is being shaped.
