Georgia Power introduces surge protection program

Georgia Power recently launched a new program, SurgeDefender, to help customers prevent power surges
in their homes by having a surge protection device installed at their Georgia Power meter.

The service is optional and requires a flat fee of $9.95 a month that is added to the customer’s monthly
bill. Installation is free and typically takes less than 30 minutes.

“SurgeDefender is the latest example of new products and services we’re developing to better meet the needs of our customers while also enhancing reliability and providing peace of mind,” Michael Shepherd, product manager for the SurgeDefender program, said. “When severe weather strikes, customers enrolled in the program can rest assured that appliances, which are significant financial investments in the home, are protected.”

Lightning strikes, which send a sudden jolt of electrical current through the electrical meter and home wiring, are among the most common causes of power surges. A lighting strike, or other causes of power surges, can cause damage to appliances that sometimes cannot be repaired. Georgia is one of the states with the most lightning-related insurance claims.

The company also offers an online Outage and Storm Center through which customers can sign up to receive Outage Alerts, report and check the status of outages and access safety tips and information. The website also features an interactive Outage Map that provides near real-time information on where outages are occurring across the state and estimated restoration times.