How Much Is Electricity in Georgia per Month?

Understanding monthly electricity costs in Georgia involves various elements that contribute to a household’s utility bill. This article provides clarity on these expenses, helping residents comprehend the financial aspects of their electricity consumption. From average costs to the specific factors that influence bills and the different types of providers, gaining insight into these areas can empower consumers to make more informed decisions about their energy use.

Understanding Average Monthly Costs

The average residential electricity bill in Georgia is approximately $143.25 per month, based on a typical usage of about 1,081 kilowatt-hours (kWh) at a rate of roughly 13.25 cents per kWh. Other estimates for the average monthly bill range from $133 to $219, with corresponding average consumption between 920 kWh and 1,469 kWh. These figures represent averages, and individual costs can vary significantly depending on household size, energy habits, and specific location within the state. Georgia’s average monthly residential electricity bill often exceeds the national average.

Factors Influencing Electricity Bills

Several elements cause a household’s electricity bill to fluctuate from the state average, primarily linked to consumption and property characteristics. The overall energy consumption within a household is a significant determinant, influenced by the home’s size, the number of occupants, and daily lifestyle habits. Using appliances extensively or maintaining specific thermostat settings, particularly during extreme temperatures, directly impacts the total kilowatt-hours consumed.

Appliance efficiency also plays a considerable role in monthly electricity expenses. Older appliances often consume more power than newer, energy-efficient models, leading to higher usage. Upgrading to appliances with higher energy efficiency ratings can contribute to notable long-term savings on electricity bills.

Weather and seasonality exert substantial influence on electricity usage in Georgia. Hot summers and, to a lesser extent, cold winters increase heating and cooling demands, which translates to higher electricity consumption. Georgia Power, for instance, often applies seasonal rates, with higher costs per kWh during summer months.

The structural integrity and efficiency of a home, including insulation quality, window performance, and air sealing, affect energy loss. Homes with poor insulation or air leaks require more energy to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures, directly increasing electricity usage. The specific rate plan chosen by a customer can significantly alter the cost per kWh based on usage patterns, such as time-of-use rates that incentivize off-peak consumption.

Components of an Electricity Bill

A typical Georgia electricity bill includes several distinct line items, each representing a specific financial component.

Energy Charge

The “Energy Charge,” often listed as “Current Service” on Georgia Power bills, reflects the cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) consumed. This charge can be structured in tiers, where the price per kWh changes after a certain usage threshold, such as the first 650 kWh.

Customer Charge

A fixed “Customer Charge,” also known as a basic service charge, is applied monthly regardless of electricity consumption. This fee helps cover administrative costs and maintaining the infrastructure.

Fuel Cost Recovery

The “Fuel Cost Recovery” is a pass-through charge that accounts for the fluctuating cost of fuels like coal, natural gas, and nuclear materials used to generate electricity. The Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) approves the recovery of these costs. This charge is billed per kWh and can vary seasonally, typically being higher from June through September.

Additional Taxes and Fees

Additional taxes and fees are also itemized on electricity bills. These include:
An “Environmental Compliance Cost,” which covers expenses for government-mandated environmental initiatives and coal ash cleanup.
A “Municipal Franchise Fee,” paid by utilities to local governments for the use of public rights-of-way.
Local tax adjustments and general sales tax.
A Demand Side Management Residential Rider, supporting energy conservation programs.

Electricity Providers in Georgia

Electricity service in Georgia is primarily delivered by three types of providers, each operating under different structures and regulatory frameworks. The specific provider for a resident depends on their geographic location within the state, as each utility typically holds a monopoly in its designated service territory.

Investor-Owned Utilities (IOUs)

Georgia Power Company is the largest investor-owned electric utility in the state, serving millions of customers across most counties. This utility is fully regulated by the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC), which sets its rates and oversees its operations. Georgia Power offers various rate plans to its residential customers, including options with tiered rates and time-of-use pricing that vary the cost per kWh based on consumption levels and the time of day or year.

Electric Membership Corporations (EMCs)

Georgia is home to over 40 Electric Membership Corporations, which are member-owned, not-for-profit cooperatives. These EMCs operate at cost, and any net earnings are returned to their member-owners as capital credits. They collectively serve a significant portion of Georgia’s population and land area. While the PSC has limited regulatory authority over EMCs, their rates and operations are primarily governed by their respective boards of directors.

Municipal Electric Systems

Municipal electric utilities in Georgia are city-owned and operated, providing electricity services to residents within specific city limits. Similar to EMCs, these systems operate on a non-profit basis. Many municipal electric utilities are members of the Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia (MEAG Power), an organization that provides wholesale electricity generation and transmission services to its member communities. Municipal electric systems are subject to limited regulation by the PSC.