Georgia Power acquires 30 homes via eminent domain for grid expansion amid data center controversy

Published Jul 30, 11:20 AM UTC

Georgia Power, the state's largest utility, is acquiring 30 residential properties through sale or eminent domain to build a 35-mile transmission line connecting the Ashley Park Substation to the upgraded Plant Wansley. The project crosses four counties. One affected family member, Ansley Brown, claimed on Instagram that the expansion is driven by data center demand, though Georgia Power denies a direct link. However, a massive AI data center sits less than five miles from the substation. Brown's family eventually settled with the company. The article highlights broader tensions over eminent domain for AI infrastructure, rising electricity costs passed to consumers, and legislative efforts in California and Oregon to make large power users pay their fair share.