Jon Burns, the House Speaker of Georgia, said that the new energy rate freeze will benefit businesses, families, and consumers while supporting the state’s top business ranking. He made these remarks on X.
“Georgia’s vast network of sustainable, reliable and affordable energy is one of the many reasons we’ve been named the best state for business for 11 consecutive years,” said Burns. “This rate freeze is great news for businesses, families and consumers across our state!”
Georgia’s energy rate freeze policy, enacted in 2023, prohibits utilities from raising electricity rates for residential and business customers for three years. This measure aims to protect consumers from inflation-driven spikes and encourage economic stability. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that this policy is considered crucial for both families and businesses navigating unpredictable energy markets.
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), before the rate freeze, Georgia Power customers paid an average residential electricity rate of 14.5 cents per kilowatt-hour in 2022, with typical monthly bills for households around $143. Energy costs had increased by more than 18% over the previous five years.
Georgia has ranked among the top 10 states for both electricity affordability and grid reliability over the past decade. The state boasts electricity rates slightly below the national average and fewer power outages per capita. This performance has attracted manufacturers and large-scale businesses, according to the EIA.
Burns serves as the Speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives, having been a member since 2005 and rising to Speaker in 2023. He is recognized for bipartisan leadership and a legislative focus on infrastructure, energy, and economic growth, as noted in his official House biography.
