ATLANTA, May 14, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Georgia Power today marked this week's signing of Georgia House Bill 57, or the Solar Power Free Market Financing Act, by Georgia Governor Nathan Deal. Over the past year, Georgia Power has worked with the bill's author, Representative Mike Dudgeon, other lawmakers, utilities and solar companies in the creation of the law which allows a lease transaction based on the performance of a solar installation.

Georgia Power is advancing cost-effective solar generation in Georgia and the state is one of the fastest growing solar markets in the nation, made possible through a constructive regulatory and legislative environment.

With Georgia Power Energy Experts throughout the state, the company provides solar programs and services as a part of its commitment to assisting customers with all of their energy needs. Customers considering the purchase or lease of solar equipment are encouraged to visit www.GeorgiaPower.com/Solar or contact the company for information and resources. Georgia Power will work with all customers to help determine whether solar is an economically viable choice for them as well as advise them on safe installation options.

Georgia Power's innovative solar programs, such as the Advanced Solar Initiative (ASI), are adding thousands of solar panels to Georgia's energy landscape. Through the ASI and other programs, Georgia Power is working to develop one of the largest solar portfolios in the nation. All of the company's solar resources are being procured at costs designed to prevent upward pressure on rates and ensure that solar offers the most value for Georgia Power customers.

About Georgia Power
Georgia Power is the largest subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), one of the nation's largest generators of electricity.  Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company's promise to 2.4 million customers in all but four of Georgia's 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy at rates below the national average, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, 21st century coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind.  Consistently recognized as a leader in customer service, Georgia Power was recently ranked highest in overall business customer satisfaction among large utilities in the South by J.D. Power and Associates. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower) and Twitter (Twitter.com/GeorgiaPower).

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SOURCE Georgia Power