On February 20, 2026, the Georgia Public Utility Commission (PUC) announced a series of proposed regulations aimed at increasing transparency and accountability in the state's public utility industry. The proposed regulations come in response to growing concerns about the lack of oversight and regulation in the industry, which has led to rising costs for consumers and questionable practices by utility companies.One of the key proposals put forth by the PUC is the implementation of stricter reporting requirements for public utilities. This would include mandating that companies provide detailed reports on their operations, expenses, and pricing structures to the commission on a regular basis. These reports would then be made available to the public in order to provide greater transparency into how utility companies are conducting their business.In addition to increased reporting requirements, the PUC is also proposing to establish a new oversight committee specifically tasked with monitoring the practices of public utilities in the state. This committee would have the authority to investigate complaints from consumers, conduct audits of utility companies, and recommend penalties for any companies found to be engaging in unethical or illegal behavior.The proposed regulations have been met with both support and criticism from various stakeholders in the industry. Consumer advocacy groups have applauded the PUC's efforts to hold utility companies accountable and protect the interests of consumers. However, some utility companies have expressed concerns about the potential impact of the regulations on their operations and profitability.The PUC is currently seeking public input on the proposed regulations, with a series of public hearings scheduled to take place over the coming months. The commission is expected to make a final decision on the regulations later this year, with the new rules likely to come into effect in 2027.Overall, the proposed regulations represent a significant step towards increasing oversight and accountability in Georgia's public utility industry. By requiring greater transparency and establishing new mechanisms for monitoring utility companies, the PUC aims to ensure that consumers are protected and that the industry operates in a fair and ethical manner.