Savannah officials to urge Congress to protect clean energy programs as utility bills rise

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - As Georgians open winter power bills and brace for the next one, Savannah leaders plan to make a case that clean energy savings programs should be expanded ; not cut.

Public Service Commissioner Dr. Alicia Johnson, Savannah elected officials and clean energy advocates will gather Thursday, Jan. 22, at 11 a.m. for a press conference calling on Georgia’s congressional delegation to defend federal clean energy and efficiency investments as utility bills rise statewide.

Speakers are expected to highlight how recent federal actions have eliminated or put at risk programs including Solar for All and Georgia BRIGHT, initiatives supporters say were designed to reduce monthly power bills while cutting climate pollution. Participants also plan to argue that rolling back clean energy and efficiency investments would increase financial strain on families and fail to address the climate crisis, while urging federal leaders to protect programs they say deliver savings, public health benefits and economic stability in the Savannah area.

Scheduled speakers include Johnson; Savannah Alderman Nick Palumbo; Chatham County Commissioner Aaron “Adot” Whitely; and Nicole Lee of Be Smart Home Solutions.

The event is scheduled for 11 a.m. at the Bull Street Public Library, located at 2002 Bull St.