Simple Solar Frequently Asked Questions

Solar energy is power that is harnessed from the sun. The solar energy Georgia Power uses for the Simple Solar program is generated through photovoltaic (PV) systems that use semiconductor cells, or modules, that convert sunlight directly into electricity. The PV cells are connected in the form of flat panels and arrays of panels that can be mounted on the ground or on rooftops. The energy generated through the use of PV technology produces zero emissions.

Solar energy is electricity produced in an environmentally friendly manner. The use of solar can reduce environmental impacts from electricity generation. This makes solar electricity technology among the cleanest while having the least impact on the environment.

Georgia Power's Simple Solar program uses energy from renewable generation that meets the criteria approved by the Georgia Public Service Commission. Additionally, Georgia Power's Simple Solar program purchases certified renewable energy credits (RECs) that meet specific environmental and consumer-protection standards.

Any Georgia Power residential, commercial or industrial customer may sign up for Simple Solar by completing our simple online form. However, customers on the PrePay rate should remember that the Simple Solar fee will also be deducted from funds remaining in their account balance each month. If there are insufficient funds in the account at the time the Simple Solar charge is applied, that will result in a negative account balance and may result in a disconnection of service.

Per the customer's election of 50% or 100%, the additional charge of 1.25¢ per kWh per month will be charged for either 50% or 100% of the customer's monthly usage. The purchase of Simple Solar is in addition to the normal monthly bill.

Charges for Simple Solar will be calculated based on the percentage election (50% or 100%) purchased by the customer each month. Example: For a customer who uses 1,000 kWh in the billing month (found on the customer's Online Customer Care Portal or the monthly bill) 100 percent Simple Solar would cost $10.00 (plus MFF* and tax) per month in addition to the normal monthly bill.

The Simple Solar charge will fluctuate each month dependent on kWh usage amount. The contract period is one month. After the initial month, customers are automatically re-enrolled unless Georgia Power receives notification of their wish to withdraw from the program. A large-volume purchase option is also available to those customers who desire to purchase at least 100,000 kWh per month. After a customer purchases at least 100,000 kWh per month, he/she may purchase additional kWhs at a reduced price, per the tariff.

Renewable energy certificates or renewable energy credits (RECs) are the intangible certifiable environmental attributes created with each megawatt hour of energy generated by a renewable asset. For every unit of renewable electricity generated, an equivalent amount of RECs is produced. With your purchase of Simple Solar, you are helping increase the demand for renewable energy and encouraging the development of new renewable energy projects.

No. Purchases through Georgia Power's Simple Solar program are not charitable contributions and therefore are not tax-deductible.

The Simple Solar 1.25¢ per kWh purchase price includes the solar Renewable Energy Credit ("REC") cost, plus program marketing and administration expenses including customer education, program promotion, REC tracking and certification. For more information about the costs associated with the Simple Solar program for residential or commercial and industrial customers, please email Simple Solar Sales.

Due to the way electricity is transmitted and distributed, energy purchased or produced from renewable energy resources may not be specifically delivered to you. However, the solar Renewable Energy Credit (REC) you purchase, plus the energy purchased with it from Georgia Power, allows you to claim usage of solar energy. Your participation in the Simple Solar program will help stimulate and support the production of solar energy in Georgia.

For additional information regarding Georgia Power's Simple Solar program, please email Simple Solar Sales.