First new natural gas turbine delivered to Georgia Power's Plant Yates

Core Viewpoint - Georgia Power, in collaboration with Mitsubishi Power, has delivered the first of three new advanced natural gas turbines to Plant Yates, marking the company's first new natural gas project in over a decade, aimed at meeting the growing energy demand in Georgia [1][4][5]. Group 1: Project Details - The new Mitsubishi Power M501JAC combustion turbines will provide a total generation capacity of 1,300 megawatts (MW) when all units are operational [1]. - The first turbine, weighing nearly 350 tons and measuring 50 feet long and 18 feet wide, was assembled in Savannah and transported to the site via rail and truck [1]. - The new units are expected to be operational by the end of 2027, as approved by the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) in the 2023 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) Update [4]. Group 2: Economic Impact - The expansion at Plant Yates is projected to create approximately 600 jobs during the construction phase and add 15 permanent jobs once completed, increasing the plant's workforce to 75 full-time positions [3]. - Plant Yates has been a significant energy source for Georgia since its commercial operation began in 1950, supporting local economic growth [3]. Group 3: Technological Advancements - The M501JAC turbines offer higher output and efficiency compared to previous designs, with a startup time of approximately 30 minutes and the capability to run on oil if natural gas is unavailable [5]. - The technology also allows for future modifications to use a hydrogen mix as fuel, aligning with industry trends towards reduced carbon emissions [5][6]. Group 4: Energy Strategy - Natural gas currently accounts for 40% of Georgia Power's annual energy generation, and the company is committed to meeting the energy needs of a rapidly growing Georgia through its IRP process [7]. - Georgia Power is also investing in upgrades at other plants, including combined cycle and simple cycle enhancements at Plant McIntosh, which will add an additional 268 MW of capacity [8].