The 2025 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), filed on January 31 with the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC), outlines Georgia Power’s strategy to meet growing energy demands and support the state’s continued economic expansion. The plan proposes essential investments in generation and transmission infrastructure to ensure reliability, resiliency, and enhanced customer programs.
Over the next six years, Georgia Power anticipates approximately 8,200 MW of electrical load growth, with peak demand increasing by over 2,200 MWe by 2030 compared to projections in the 2023 IRP Update, approved in April 2024.
The company has identified opportunities to upgrade several existing nuclear units to meet rising capacity needs without requiring additional transmission infrastructure. Georgia Power, a subsidiary of Southern Company, is proposing extended power uprates (EPU) at Vogtle Units 1 and 2 and Hatch Units 1 and 2. Between 2028 and 2034, these upgrades will add a total of 112 MWe: 27 MWe each at Vogtle 1 and 2, 30 MWe at Hatch 1, and 28 MWe at Hatch 2.
EPUs involve significant modifications to major plant equipment to increase thermal output. Georgia Power stated that the process includes extensive analysis of plant systems and components to determine necessary modifications. Additionally, the company plans to implement the Maximum Extended Load Line Limit Analysis Plus (MELLA+) enhancement at the Hatch units. This upgrade allows for increased thermal power without raising core flow, supporting EPUs for boiling water reactors (BWRs).
Georgia Power is also evaluating an operational change for Vogtle Units 1 and 2, transitioning to a 24-month outage cycle to extend runtimes and reduce refueling outages across the fleet. The company is working with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to obtain approval for these upgrades through the required licensing process.
Future Nuclear Development
Georgia Power recognizes the long-term need for additional nuclear power to ensure reliability, affordability, and reduced carbon emissions. Nuclear energy offers a sustainable solution to potential future environmental regulations affecting fossil-fuel generation.
The company develops multiple forecasts regarding the cost, performance, and fuel prices of generation technologies. Under the 2025 IRP scenarios, six out of nine models support new nuclear generation within a 20-year horizon, with potential implementation as early as 2037.
However, the company acknowledges the substantial risks associated with new nuclear construction. Before proposing additional projects, Georgia Power aims to develop strategies to mitigate risks for stakeholders. It continues to assess potential sites, explore emerging technologies, and collaborate with stakeholders to improve nuclear deployment methods.
“With the experience gained from Vogtle Units 3 and 4, we believe additional nuclear generation will benefit customers in the long run,” Georgia Power stated.
“Our vision extends far beyond today—we plan for tomorrow, the next ten years, and decades ahead,” said Kim Greene, chairman, president, and CEO of Georgia Power. “As Georgia continues to grow, proactive planning through the Integrated Resource Plan ensures the state remains well-positioned for the future. The 2025 IRP provides a comprehensive roadmap to support Georgia’s economic growth while delivering clean, safe, reliable, and affordable energy for years to come.”