Georgia Power is continuing its efforts to modernize its hydroelectric fleet as part of ongoing investments to support Georgia’s energy needs. The company owns and operates 15 hydro generation facilities in the state, with an ownership interest in a 16th, totaling 66 generating units and over 1,100 megawatts of capacity. Many of these units have been operating for more than a century and are licensed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission under the Federal Power Act.
In addition to providing emission-free electricity, Georgia Power’s hydro facilities offer recreational opportunities for residents. Lakes such as Oconee, Burton, and Tugalo are open to the public for activities like camping and watersports.
The modernization projects receive oversight from the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC). In its most recent Integrated Resource Plan for 2025, Georgia Power secured approval for further upgrades at several key sites including Tallulah, Yonah, Bartlett’s Ferry, and North Highlands. These upgrades target equipment that has reached or is nearing the end of its useful life. Planned improvements include replacements or refurbishments of turbines, generators, and other plant systems to extend operational life by at least another four decades.
“For more than a century, Georgians have enjoyed reliable electricity from our hydro plants located on lakes and rivers across the state,” said Rick Anderson, Georgia Power senior vice president and senior production officer for Georgia Power. “As we continue to work with the Georgia PSC to invest in our generation fleet to meet the needs of a growing Georgia, modernizing our hydro facilities helps to ensure continued compliance with federal regulations and our licenses, as well as providing additional longevity for the units and overall value for customers.”
A recent update filed with the PSC highlighted completed work at Plant Tugalo near Turnerville. All four units there underwent generator replacements, turbine replacements, and upgrades to supporting systems such as lubricating oil lines and control systems. Similar modernization was previously completed at nearby Plant Terrora.
Progress was also reported at Plants Bartlett’s Ferry (where Unit 1 returned to service in July), Nacoochee, Oliver, Burton, and Sinclair. At Bartlett’s Ferry—part of the Chattahoochee group north of Columbus—upgrades included generator rewinds and turbine replacements on multiple units dating back nearly a century.
Additional information about these projects can be found through Georgia Power’s website.
