Regulations

By policy and practice, Georgia Transmission works hard to comply with state and federal environmental requirements and minimize the effects of our activities. When locating a new power line, we may be subject to various federal and state environmental requirements.

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)

In order to meet the requirements of this act, a typical project includes a rigorous study of alternatives based on input from stakeholders (including but not limited to state and federal regulators) and an assessment of potential environmental impacts of the proposed actions.

Endangered species and historic preservation

The NEPA assessment of the proposed project includes evaluating the presence and subsequent protection of listed species and their habitat under the Endangered Species Act. Similarly cultural resources are evaluated and addressed under the National Historic Preservation Act.

Waterways

If our lines need to cross streams or wetlands, we make great efforts to protect these waters and mitigate any impacts. Our plans are reviewed by various state and federal agencies, including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to ensure our projects will meet environmental compliance requirements. As required by the Clean Water Act’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program, we have Best Management Practices (BMPs) in place during construction, such as hay bales and silt fences, to control discharges into nearby streams, wetlands and other waterways. Erosion control inspections take place regularly and within 24 hours of a half-inch or greater rainfall to ensure BMPs are working properly. Water quality monitoring and reporting to the State Department of Natural Resources, Environmental Protection Division, is also part of our compliance with the NPDES program.

Our environmental page details the uncommon steps we’re taking to help catalogue Georgia’s historic resources and endangered species, as well as the assistance we provide to the MillionMile Greenway, Clean Air Campaign, wildlife conservation and other efforts.