Georgia Power's Plant Yates Expansion: First New Turbine Delivered for 1,300 MW Capacity

Georgia Power has received the first of three new natural gas turbines at Plant Yates, adding 1,300 MW capacity by 2027. The turbines are future-ready with hydrogen-blend compatibility and quick start-up times, creating 600 construction jobs and 15 permanent positions. The project aligns with Georgia Power's strategy to meet growing energy needs and reduce carbon emissions.

Georgia Power, a subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), has received the first of three new state-of-the-art natural gas turbines at Plant Yates in Coweta County, Georgia. The delivery of these turbines marks a significant milestone in the company's strategy to meet growing energy demands and reduce carbon emissions.

The new turbines, manufactured by Mitsubishi Power, are of the M501JAC series and are expected to add 1,300 megawatts (MW) of generation capacity to Plant Yates by the end of 2027 [1]. The project, which includes the installation of three advanced class heavy-duty gas combustion turbines, is Georgia Power's first new natural gas project in over a decade.

The turbines feature several advanced technologies, including 30-minute start-up times, oil backup capability, and future hydrogen-blend compatibility. This flexibility allows Georgia Power to respond quickly to changes in demand and maintain grid reliability. The project is part of a broader strategy to diversify Georgia Power's energy mix and reduce its reliance on coal.

The economic impact of the project is substantial, with approximately 600 construction jobs and 15 permanent positions being created. This expansion will increase the plant's workforce to 75 full-time employees [2]. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2027, reflecting the relatively efficient planning and construction timelines characteristic of natural gas generation.

Georgia Power's investment in Plant Yates aligns with its broader strategy to support Georgia's robust economic growth and increasing electricity demand. The company has additional plans for combined cycle and simple cycle upgrades at Plant McIntosh and has requested certification for five new combined cycle units totaling 3,692 MW across multiple plants [2].

The new turbines are part of a broader natural gas investment strategy by Southern Company, with natural gas currently providing 40% of Georgia Power's annual energy generation [1]. This investment positions Southern Company to support Georgia's energy needs while maintaining system reliability.

References:
[1] https://www.stocktitan.net/news/SO/first-new-natural-gas-turbine-delivered-to-georgia-power-s-plant-agas70ndjqu0.html
[2] https://www.marketscreener.com/news/first-new-natural-gas-turbine-delivered-to-georgia-power-s-plant-yates-ce7c51dede89f623