Georgia Power, a subsidiary of Southern Company, is partnering with U.S. Army Garrison Fort Eisenhower on a groundbreaking $72 million utility energy service contract (UESC). This initiative aims to significantly enhance the energy efficiency of the sprawling 55,000-acre military installation located near Augusta, Georgia. As the largest UESC in Georgia Power's history, this project underscores the utility's commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Southern Company is a leading energy provider serving 9 million customers across the Southeast, dedicated to clean, safe, reliable, and affordable energy. Operating electric companies in three states and natural gas distribution in four states, Southern Company emphasizes innovation, resilience, and sustainability, aiming for net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Its largest electric subsidiary, Georgia Power, serves 2.7 million customers in Georgia, offering a diverse energy mix including nuclear, coal, natural gas, and renewables. Georgia Power is known for its commitment to value, reliability, and customer service.
A utility energy service contract is a targeted agreement between a federal agency and a utility provider to enhance energy management services. This contract aims to boost the efficiency of buildings and mechanical systems. Georgia Power, in collaboration with PowerSecure, a fellow Southern Company subsidiary, will manage the upgrades at Fort Eisenhower. The project is projected to reduce energy costs by $6 million each year, with an expected completion date in the first quarter of 2026.
The primary objective of this partnership is to reduce Fort Eisenhower's carbon footprint by focusing on three critical areas: energy efficiency, resiliency, and greenhouse gas reduction. The key improvement involves replacing the aging diesel generation infrastructure with modern natural gas generation. This upgrade will be financed through energy savings derived from lighting retrofits, heating and air conditioning replacements, and water conservation measures.
This project builds on Georgia Power's broader utility privatization contract, where it serves as the owner of Fort Eisenhower's electric utility system. By accelerating investments in the electric framework, Georgia Power aims to address the evolving energy needs of the installation while simultaneously reducing its environmental impact.
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Col. Reginald K. Evans, Commander of U.S. Army Garrison Fort Eisenhower, expressed satisfaction with the partnership. He emphasized that replacing diesel-powered generators with natural gas systems is a significant step towards reducing the installation's carbon footprint. Additionally, he highlighted the energy savings from various planned conservation measures.
Latanza Adjei, Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer for Georgia Power, also acknowledged the importance of this collaboration. She noted that such efforts are vital for creating a sustainable energy future and align with Georgia Power's commitment to its customers and communities.
