As fall brings cooler temperatures to Georgia, Georgia Power is urging its customers to take steps to improve energy efficiency in their homes ahead of the winter season. The company notes that heating can make up as much as half of a typical household’s energy use during colder months, so small adjustments may help lower utility bills.
Georgia Power stated that it aims to provide reliable and affordable service, highlighting that its rates have been about 15% below the national average since 1990. The Georgia Public Service Commission has also approved a plan to freeze the company’s base rates through at least the end of 2028, except for storm recovery costs. This rate freeze, combined with efforts to boost energy efficiency in homes, is intended to give customers more predictable and stable energy costs across the state.
The company recommends several actions for homeowners preparing for winter:
– Regularly changing air filters to keep heating systems running efficiently and ensuring vents are not blocked.
– Checking insulation in attics and walls and sealing leaks around doors and windows to prevent drafts.
– Setting thermostats near 68 degrees for an effective balance between comfort and cost. Customers are advised not to turn off units completely and consider installing programmable thermostats, which could save up to $100 annually in energy costs along with potential rebates from Georgia Power.
– Using sunlight by opening blinds during the day for natural warmth and closing them at night to minimize heat loss.
To further support customers, Georgia Power offers programs such as Energy Assistance for Savings & Efficiency (EASE), which provides free home improvements for income-qualified households. Another program, the Home Energy Improvement Program (HEIP), gives eligible customers up to $1,250 per year in rebates covering half the cost of certain energy-saving products or services.
Customers seeking more information on preparing their homes for colder weather or on available efficiency programs can visit GeorgiaPower.com/Efficiency.
