Georgia is an energy-dependent state which produces only a small proportion of its energy needs, most of it through hydroelectric power. There are no commercially recoverable petroleum or natural gas reserves, and the state's coal deposits are of no more than marginal importance. Georgia does have large amounts of timberland, however, and it has been estimated that 20–40% of the state's energy demands could be met by using wood that is currently wasted. The state's southern location and favorable weather conditions also make solar power an increasingly attractive energy alternative. Georgia's extensive river system also offers the potential for further hydroelectric development.
In 2000 Georgia's total per capita energy consumption was 338 million Btu (85.2 million kcal), ranking it 28th among the 50 states.
In 1999, Georgia produced 117.7 billion kWh of electricity (utility and nonutility) and had a total installed capacity of 25 million kW. As of 2001 the Georgia Power Co. operated two atomic reactors at the Edwin I Hatch power plant near Baxley, with a combined capacity of 1,726,000 kW, and two more reactors, with a combined capacity of 2,297,000 kW, at the Vogtle plant at Waynesboro. All utilities are regulated by the Georgia Public Service Commission, which must approve their rates.
Exploration for oil is currently in progress off the coast, but the state's offshore oil resources are expected to be slight.