Georgia Power Offers Energy Efficiency Resources to Combat Summer Heat and Manage Bills

ATLANTA, GA – June 19, 2025 – As summer officially commences and temperatures, along with humidity, continue their seasonal ascent following recent rainfall, Georgia Power is proactively assisting its customers in staying cool while effectively managing their energy expenditures. The arrival of summer this week serves as an opportune moment for customers to leverage the array of tools and programs specifically designed to optimize energy usage and achieve cost reductions during the peak demand period.

Georgia Power, a subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), is committed to providing practical solutions that empower customers to take control of their energy consumption. High temperatures typically lead to increased reliance on air conditioning, which can significantly impact monthly utility bills. By implementing simple yet effective energy efficiency measures, customers can mitigate these costs without sacrificing comfort.

Key Energy Efficiency Programs and Tips

The company highlights several key resources available to residential and business customers:

• Home Energy Checkup: Georgia Power offers free online and in-home energy checkups to help customers identify areas where energy is being wasted and receive personalized recommendations for improvements. These assessments can pinpoint issues such as poor insulation, leaky windows, or inefficient appliances.
• Energy Efficiency Programs: Various rebate and incentive programs are available for customers who invest in energy-efficient upgrades, including HVAC systems, insulation, smart thermostats, and ENERGY STAR® certified appliances. These programs help offset the upfront cost of improvements, making them more accessible.
• Online Energy Tools: The Georgia Power website provides a wealth of online resources, including energy usage tracking tools, bill forecasting, and personalized tips based on individual energy consumption patterns. These tools enable customers to monitor their usage in real-time and make informed decisions.
• Simple Tips for Saving: Beyond formal programs, Georgia Power emphasizes easy-to-implement tips such as setting thermostats to a comfortable yet energy-saving temperature (typically 78°F when home and higher when away), using ceiling fans to circulate air, sealing air leaks around windows and doors, and utilizing blinds or curtains to block direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day.

By combining these resources and practices, customers can make a tangible difference in their energy bills throughout the summer months.

Market Context and Implications for Southern Company (SO)

This initiative by Georgia Power is strategically important for Southern Company (SO). As a regulated utility, Georgia Power's revenue is tied to its rate base and approved rates. However, managing peak demand and promoting energy efficiency can have several positive implications for the parent company:

• Reduced Need for Peak Generation: By lowering peak demand through efficiency measures, Georgia Power can potentially defer or reduce the need for costly investments in new power generation facilities or upgrades to handle extreme load conditions. This can improve capital efficiency for SO.
• Improved Customer Satisfaction: Providing resources that help customers save money on their bills can lead to higher customer satisfaction, which is crucial for a regulated utility operating in a specific service territory.
• Regulatory Relations: Proactive energy efficiency programs are often viewed favorably by state regulatory bodies, potentially supporting constructive relationships and future rate case outcomes.
• Environmental Goals: Energy efficiency contributes to reducing overall energy consumption and associated emissions, aligning with increasing environmental sustainability goals and regulations.

While the direct financial impact of these programs on SO's immediate earnings may be modest, they contribute to the long-term stability, efficiency, and positive public perception of its largest subsidiary.

Investment Insights

For investors in Southern Company (SO), this announcement, while not a major market mover, reinforces the company's commitment to operational efficiency and customer service within its regulated utility segment. Regulated utilities like Georgia Power provide a stable earnings base for SO, and initiatives that enhance this stability are generally viewed positively.

Investors should consider this as part of the broader picture of SO's strategy, which includes managing its regulated assets effectively, investing in infrastructure, and navigating the evolving energy landscape. While energy efficiency programs might slightly dampen demand growth, they also reduce operational stress during peak periods and support long-term regulatory and customer relationships. This contributes to the predictable cash flows that make utilities attractive to income-focused investors.

Monitoring customer adoption rates of these programs and their impact on peak load management could provide further insights into the operational efficiency gains for Georgia Power and, by extension, Southern Company.