Southern Company reported 2024 earnings of $4. 4 billion, a $400 million or 10 percent rise from the previous year. Georgia Power President Christopher C. Womack praised the team for their performance. However, this news comes as Georgia Power customers face their sixth energy rate increase since 2023, raising concerns about the balance between profits and affordability. Energy advocate Patty Durand criticized the situation as a wealth transfer from lower-income Georgians to company executives. Georgia Power’s rate hikes, approved by the PSC, are to fund Plant Vogtle and infrastructure upkeep. PSC Commissioner Tim Echols defended the company’s profits, emphasizing their role in maintaining a robust utility system. Critics argue that better management is needed, citing low grid utilization. The Georgia legislature is considering SB 94 to better represent consumer interests. Public hearings on Georgia Power’s 2025 resource plan will begin on March 25.