Georgia Power set to enable electric vehicle fast charging access across major travel corridor

Rhea-AI Summary

Georgia Power is enhancing electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure in Georgia by investing $6 million over the next three years to install 49 DC fast chargers, allowing drivers to gain 100 miles in just 12 minutes. This initiative is part of the Electric Highway Coalition, enabling seamless EV travel through a coordinated network from Texas to Washington, D.C. Georgia Power's commitment supports the adoption of EVs, with plans to electrify 50% of its fleet by 2030, emphasizing environmental benefits and expanding access for customers.

Positive

• Investment of $6 million for 49 DC fast chargers in Georgia.
• Participation in the Electric Highway Coalition for enhanced EV travel.
• Plans to electrify 50% of the vehicle fleet by 2030.

Negative

• None.

ATLANTA, March 2, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- With an increase of electric vehicles (EVs) on Georgia roads every day, Georgia Power is committed to assisting customers with access to efficient and reliable charging options. Southern Company, the utility's corporate parent, today announced plans to join other utilities across the South, Midwest, Gulf Coast, Central Plains and mid-Atlantic to enable EV drivers' seamless travel through a coordinated network of Direct Current (DC) Fast Chargers.

This effort, called the "Electric Highway Coalition," represents an unprecedented level of coordination to increase charging options along major highway routes from Texas to Washington, D.C., and provide easier access to environmentally friendly vehicle options for drivers.

"As the sixth largest market nationally for EV fast charging, Georgia Power is committed to continuing growth of EV infrastructure across the state and providing increased access to customers looking to drive electric," said Nicole Faulk, senior vice president for customer and corporate services. "As Southern Company's largest subsidiary, our commitment plays a significant role in the increasing growth of electric vehicle adoption, and the connection of communities across Georgia and the country."

Working with the Georgia Public Service Commission, the company has installed 49 DC fast chargers in locations statewide and is investing $6 million over three years in fast-charging infrastructure across Georgia. The installation represents the newest technology in EV fast chargers, offering charging speeds up to 125kW – adding 100 miles in 12 minutes – dual dispensers and power sharing capabilities to maximize the number of ports that can be deployed and still receive an optimal charge.

Additionally, the company has partnered with Cox Automotive Mobility to complete one of the largest EV charging single property installations in the southeast at the Pivet Atlanta facility near Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. Georgia Power also supports 24 charging stall stations through Electrify America, Tesla and the EVgo Fast Charging Network. These investments further enable electric vehicle adoption and the connection of communities across the country.

Last year, Georgia Power announced it will electrify portions of its vehicle fleet as part of Southern Company's plans to convert 50 percent of its system fleet vehicles across the auto/SUV/minivan, forklift and ATV/cart/miscellaneous segments by 2030. The internal fleet goal is part of a larger focus on electrification of the transportation industry and the company's commitment to expanding zero-emission electric vehicles and clean transportation options.

Now offered by most major manufacturers, EVs continue to advance in range, performance and features. In addition, EVs benefit the environment with zero direct emissions, specifically improving air quality in urban areas, have a lower cost of ownership than petroleum vehicles and, with their domestic energy source, promote local jobs.

EV Resources for Customers
In addition to developing public charging infrastructure, the company is committed to explaining the benefits of EV ownership and making the decision to switch easier than ever by providing customers with the resources they need to learn more about the benefits and potential savings of driving electric. By visiting www.GeorgiaPower.com/EV, customers have access to information on:

• buying an electric vehicle,
• understanding electric vehicle options,
• charging an electric vehicle,
• charging locations,
• electric transportation news, and
• frequently asked questions.

Georgia Power also offers EV charger rebates for business and residential customers, an online calculator to help customers find out how much driving electric may save them and a special rate for EV customers. The company's Plug-in Electric Vehicle rate offers lower prices from 11 p.m. – 7 a.m. to encourage nighttime EV charging.

About Georgia Power
Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America's premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company's promise to 2.6 million customers in all but four of Georgia's 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy at rates below the national average, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), Twitter (Twitter.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

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SOURCE Georgia Power

FAQ

What is the Electric Highway Coalition and its significance for SO?

The Electric Highway Coalition is a collaborative effort to create a network of DC fast chargers, enhancing EV travel from Texas to Washington, D.C. for Southern Company, SO's parent, improving access and convenience for EV drivers.

How much is Georgia Power investing in EV infrastructure?

Georgia Power is investing $6 million over three years to expand its EV fast charging capabilities across Georgia.

What are the charging capabilities of the new DC fast chargers?

The new DC fast chargers can provide charging speeds of up to 125kW, enabling drivers to gain 100 miles of range in just 12 minutes.

What percentage of the vehicle fleet will Georgia Power electrify by 2030?

By 2030, Georgia Power plans to electrify 50% of its system fleet, moving towards a more sustainable vehicle lineup.

How does EV adoption benefit the environment according to Georgia Power?

According to Georgia Power, EVs produce zero direct emissions, improving air quality in urban areas, while also offering a lower cost of ownership compared to petroleum vehicles.