The Georgia Chamber of Commerce hosted its 2026 State of Energy event at The Coca-Cola Company Headquarters in Atlanta on May 28, bringing together business leaders, utility executives, policymakers, and economic developers to discuss the state’s evolving energy landscape and infrastructure needs for continued economic growth.
As part of the Chamber’s “State of” series, the event focused on energy policy, economic development, infrastructure requirements, and Georgia’s long-term competitiveness. The program included remarks and panel discussions from leaders in Georgia’s energy, manufacturing, and economic development sectors. Participants included Stuart Countess, President and CEO of KIA Georgia; Kim Greene, Chairman, President and CEO of Georgia Power; Annalisa Bloodworth, President and CEO of Oglethorpe Power Corporation; Jim Fuller, President and CEO of MEAG Power; Kevin Greiner, President and CEO of Gas South; Niki Vanderslice, President & CEO of the Fayette County Development Authority; and Katie Ottenweller from Google.
During the event, Chris Clark, President and CEO of the Georgia Chamber, said: “The modern economy no longer simply uses electricity. As demand for energy, connectivity, computing power, and digital infrastructure continues to grow, Georgia has an opportunity not just to participate in the future economy but to help lead it. Through the launch of these initiatives we are bringing together the full ecosystem including utilities, data center operators, local governments, educators, and industry leaders to think long-term about Georgia’s future through facts, planning, partnership, and economic stewardship.”
Clark announced two new initiatives: the Georgia Digital Infrastructure Alliance and a Data Center Ready Community Designation by the Chamber. Additional details about these initiatives will be released in coming weeks.
Panel discussions examined topics such as growing energy demand in Georgia due to data centers and advanced manufacturing as well as natural gas use and emerging technologies powering future growth. Daniela Perry, Executive Director at the Georgia Chamber Foundation, delivered closing remarks.
Founded in 1911 with incorporation following in 1915, the organization is now considered one of the largest business advocacy groups representing tens of thousands across all regions with offices located in Atlanta, Brunswick, and Tifton.
