GCV Proposes 100% Renewable Georgia by 2050

On January 29th, Georgia Conservation Voters held a gathering and press conference at the capitol to launch its legislative agenda for the current legislative session.

A key hallmark of the GCV platform is the 100% renewable campaign, which aims to put Georgia on a path for 100% renewable energy by 2050.

GCV “Keep it 100%” campaiign and press conference at the Georgia Capitol, January 29, 2025

Across the country, 22 states have committed to achieving 100% carbon-free electricity—but Georgia isn’t one of them. Despite the lack of a statewide plan, local communities like DeKalb County, Atlanta, Athens-Clarke County, Augusta-Richmond County, Clarkston, Decatur, and Savannah have stepped up, setting ambitious goals for 100% clean energy.

Now, with new federal funding supporting clean energy initiatives, Georgia Conservation Voters (GCV) is leading a multi-year campaign to push for a statewide commitment to 100% renewable electricity by 2050. This is an important opportunity for Georgia’s leaders to state clearly their intentions to make common sense committments to energy transition and to care for our common home.

Right now, one in three Americans live in a state with a 100% clean energy commitment. Georgia is one of just 11 states with no statewide renewable energy goals, putting our communities at risk—both in terms of health and economic stability. Without action, we face increasing climate-related disasters and costly damage to infrastructure. But with the right policies, Georgia can chart a path toward clean, affordable energy, creating healthier communities and a stronger economy.

To support this initiative, take action today by contacting your legislators:

Below is a list of initiatives included in the GCV legislative priorities:

  1. 100% Renewable Energy by 2050

    Georgia Conservation Voters (GCV) is advocating for the state to commit to 100% renewable energy by 2050, following the lead of 22 other states. Currently, Georgia lacks any formal renewable energy goals, which poses environmental and economic risks. Transitioning to clean energy would improve public health, create jobs, and protect natural resources, and GCV is urging legislators to support this resolution.

  2. Creating a Consumer Utility Counsel (CUC)

    Georgia residents face rising electricity costs while power companies profit, and the state is one of only four without a Consumer Utility Counsel (CUC) to represent ratepayer interests. GCV supports legislation to establish a CUC, which would advocate against excessive rate hikes and ensure that consumers have a voice in regulatory decisions. The goal is to make utility bills more affordable and prevent unfair cost increases.

  3. Expanding Community Solar

    Despite Georgia’s strong solar industry, the state ranks among the lowest for distributed solar access, leaving many households unable to benefit from clean energy. GCV is pushing for policies that expand access to rooftop and community solar, particularly for low-income residents. Legislators are being encouraged to support new legislation that removes barriers and makes solar energy more widely available.

Drew Reynolds

Drew volunteers with Encounter GA a non-partisan and faith-based Catholic advocacy organization building relationships with legislators to support climate solutions for Georgia and beyond. He lives in Tucker GA and attends St. Thomas More Catholic Parish.

https://www.encounterga.org
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