Georgia utility regulator elections could shift commission control

The upcoming midterm elections for the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) could result in Democrats gaining control of the regulatory body for the first time in decades. The commission holds significant authority over Georgia Power, the state’s largest utility, determining energy production methods and customer rates.

Two seats are currently on the ballot. In District 3, incumbent Democrat Peter Hubbard is running against Republican Fitz Johnson. In District 5, Democrat Shelia Edwards is competing against Republican Josh Tolbert. If Democrats win both seats, they would secure a majority on the commission.

The election follows intense scrutiny over rising energy costs. Between 2023 and 2025, PSC-approved rate hikes added an average of $43 per month to residential bills, driven by factors such as the Vogtle nuclear plant expansion and fuel cost fluctuations. Additionally, the commission faces pressure to manage a massive spike in energy demand caused by a boom in data center construction, which has prompted requests for significant new power capacity.