Power lines might not be out of sight, but they are out of mind for most people until one of two things happens: the power goes out or a utility plans to build one near us. As for outages, most Georgians are fortunate enough to have sufficient power generation, transmission and distribution facilities to produce a reliable electric system. As the state nearly doubled its electric demand since 1990, the construction of power plants, substations and power lines has ensured the system remains reliable.
Occasional not-in-my-backyard (NIMBY) opposition to transmission line construction has created common misconceptions about high-voltage power lines, from health effects of EMF to underground construction. This section provides information on some of the misunderstood aspects of our business.
A glance at how power gets to you, what transmission power lines look like and other general information.
Understanding the effects that growing population and energy use have on the system, and steps taken to keep our fluorescent light more dependable than sunlight.
Power line safety tips are provided, including information on a law that requires people to call the Utility Protection Center at least three days before doing work within 10 feet of a high-voltage line.
Our policy statement on EMF and a link to the National Institutes of Health’s booklet on the issue.
Why distribution power lines are commonly built underground, and transmission lines are not.
Eminent domain is used infrequently. See the latest statistics and learn what procedures we follow.
See how we protect the environment when building, and what we’re doing to protect the state’s cultural sites, wildlife, endangered species and more. Apply today for a grant for improving habitat in a right of way.
Answers to other frequently asked questions.
Path of electricityPower plant to light socket at nearly 186,000 miles per second |
TYPES OF LINESWhat our transmission power lines look like |
WHAT'S ON THOSE LINES?Wires, insulators, cable TV lines and more |
Related links
Georgia System Operations Corp.
National Rural Electric Cooperative Association
Electric Power Research Institute