Georgia Power Solar Guide 2026

Georgia Power Solar Overview

Georgia Power (GPC) serves 2.7 million customers across most of Georgia. Unlike most major utilities, Georgia Power does not offer traditional net metering. This makes solar economics different—but not necessarily bad—for Georgia homeowners.

The lack of net metering doesn't mean solar doesn't work in Georgia. It means you need to approach it differently—focusing on self-consumption, battery storage, and possibly PPAs that can still capture federal incentives.

Why No Net Metering?

Georgia is one of a handful of states without mandatory net metering requirements. Georgia Power has successfully resisted net metering policies, arguing that solar customers would shift grid costs to non-solar customers.

What This Means for You

• No 1:1 credits: You don't get retail value for excess energy
• Export payments are low: Only ~$0.03-0.05/kWh for excess
• Self-consumption is key: Use the power you generate
• Batteries make more sense: Store excess instead of selling cheap

Georgia vs. Net Metering States

Solar Buyback Program

Georgia Power does offer a way to get compensated for excess solar energy, but the rates are much lower than retail.

Current Export Compensation

• Rate: Avoided cost rate (~$0.03-0.05/kWh)
• Payment: Credit on bill, not cash payment
• Rollover: Credits may expire annually
• System limit: 10 kW for residential without special approval

Simple Solar Program

Georgia Power has occasionally offered a "Simple Solar" program with slightly better rates for small systems. Check current availability—these programs come and go.

Georgia Power Electric Rates

Understanding your current rate helps you calculate solar savings:

Making Solar Work in Georgia

Despite the challenges, solar can still make sense for Georgia Power customers with the right approach.

Strategy 1: Self-Consumption Focus

• Size smaller: Match daytime usage, not total usage
• Shift loads: Run AC, pool pump, appliances during solar hours
• Avoid over-sizing: Excess production has low value
• Typical size: 4-7 kW instead of 8-12 kW

Strategy 2: Add Battery Storage

• Store excess: Use evening instead of selling for $0.04
• Peak shaving: Avoid expensive TOU peak rates
• Backup power: Georgia has storm-related outages
• Better economics: Batteries more valuable without net metering

Strategy 3: Consider PPA/Lease

• Section 48E credit: Still provides 30% through 2027
• Lower payments: Federal benefit passed to you
• No upfront cost: Start saving immediately
• Professional maintenance: Included in agreement

Who Should Still Go Solar in Georgia?

• High daytime usage: Home offices, pools, EVs charged at home
• Value backup power: Frequent outages in your area
• Environmental priority: Beyond just economics
• Long-term view: Policies may improve over time
• TOU rate customers: Can maximize peak avoidance

Interconnection Process

Georgia Power Interconnection Timeline

Total timeline: 45-90 days typical. Georgia Power is not known for fast interconnection—build extra time into your expectations.

Tips for Georgia Power Customers

Do This:

• Get detailed usage data: Download 12 months from GPC portal
• Analyze your daytime usage: This is what solar offsets
• Consider TOU rate: May improve solar + battery economics
• Size conservatively: Smaller system, better ROI
• Evaluate battery storage: Often makes sense in Georgia
• Compare PPA offers: May be best option without federal credit

Watch Out For:

• Over-sized systems: Exports have very low value
• Assuming net metering: Georgia doesn't have it
• Long interconnection: Can take 60-90+ days
• 10 kW limit: Larger systems need special approval

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Georgia Power have net metering?

No. Georgia Power does not offer traditional net metering. Excess solar energy is compensated at "avoided cost" rates of approximately $0.03-0.05/kWh, much lower than the retail rate you pay.

Is solar worth it with Georgia Power?

It can be, with the right approach. Focus on self-consumption (using the power you generate), consider battery storage, and don't oversize your system. Payback is typically 10-15 years instead of 6-10 years in net metering states.

Can I sell power back to Georgia Power?

Yes, but at very low rates. Exports are credited at avoided cost (~$0.03-0.05/kWh), not the retail rate (~$0.13/kWh) you pay. This is why self-consumption and batteries are more important in Georgia.

Why doesn't Georgia have net metering?

Georgia Power has successfully lobbied against net metering requirements, arguing it shifts costs to non-solar customers. Georgia is one of a handful of states without mandatory net metering policies.

Should I get a battery with solar in Georgia?

Batteries make more sense in Georgia than in net metering states. Instead of selling excess power for $0.04/kWh and buying it back for $0.13/kWh, you can store it and use it yourself—saving the full retail rate.

What size solar system should I get with Georgia Power?

Size for your daytime usage, not your total usage. A typical Georgia home might install 4-7 kW instead of the 8-12 kW common in net metering states. Ask your installer to analyze your hourly usage patterns.