(SAVANNAH, GA) Georgia Public Service Commissioner Tim Echols held a panel discussion on alternative energy at The Bowen Law Group office in Savannah. The panelists addressed numerous vital components of Georgia’s energy future, including Georgia Power’s Advanced Solar Initiative Program, the surprising challenges facing biomass development, battery storage of solar, how low-cost natural gas is helping to reduce pollution as well as port sustainability and the Complete Streets Ordinance.
Panel members included:
§ Georgia Power: Norrie McKenzie
§ Hannah Solar: Grant and Jackie Tallon
§ Colonial Energy: Greg Caudell
§ Georgia Ports Authority: Lee Beckmann
§ Complete Streets: John Bennett
§ Special Presentation by Filmmaker Charity Parenzini
“Several points from a variety of industries were brought up, and some of the main takeaways from the presentations were very interesting,” said Echols, “Rates are low below the national average. Georgia is fourth in the nation in solar without any kind of subsidy. New carbon-free nuclear reactors are 60% complete, though they are 39 months behind.”
Speakers discussed the merger between Georgia Power and Atlanta Gas Light, which will “ensure plentiful natural gas power generation for future years.” Compressed natural gas continues to be moved forward in the commercial sector and Savannah will be getting the first large station opening January 2017 by Colonial Energy.
The panel was held at The Bowen Law Group, located at 7 East Congress Street, 10th Floor in Savannah. Tickets were $25; healthy snacks and refreshments were supplied by enmarket.
CONTACT
Commissioner Tim Echols
706-340-0773
Twitter: @timechols