Compare Utility Providers in Atlanta, IL

In the vast majority of Atlanta and the surrounding metro area, Georgia Power is the sole electricity provider. Unlike natural gas, the electricity market is not deregulated, so you generally cannot choose between different electric companies.

Georgia deregulated its natural gas market in 1997. This means while Atlanta Gas Light (AGL) owns the pipes and maintains the infrastructure, they do not sell gas directly to consumers. You must purchase your gas from a certified “Marketer” (such as Gas South, SCANA, or Constellation Energy) who sets the rates and handles billing.

It is highly recommended to contact utility providers at least two weeks before your move-in date. Internet installation appointments can fill up quickly, and natural gas marketers often require a few days to process requests with AGL.

If you live within the city limits, service is provided by the City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management. If you live in the metro area outside city limits (like Cobb, Gwinnett, or DeKalb counties), you will need to contact your specific county water department.

Atlanta is a competitive market for ISPs. The major providers are AT&T Fiber (widely available), Xfinity, and Google Fiber (available in select neighborhoods/buildings). It is best to check specific address availability for Fiber services as coverage can vary street by street.

This is often the most confusing part of Atlanta utility bills. Because the market is deregulated, you pay your chosen Marketer for the gas you use, but you also pay a “Base Charge” to Atlanta Gas Light (AGL) for maintaining the pipes and meters. This fee is passed through on your Marketer’s bill.

Note: The AGL Base Charge is seasonal, it is significantly lower in the summer and higher in the winter.

Not necessarily. While Georgia Power serves most of the state, many suburbs in the Metro Atlanta area are served by Electric Membership Corporations (EMCs) like Cobb EMC, Jackson EMC, or Sawnee EMC. Electric service territories are fixed by law in Georgia; you cannot choose between an EMC and Georgia Power. You must use the provider assigned to your specific address.

Only if you live strictly within the city limits. If you live in “Unincorporated” DeKalb, Fulton, or Cobb counties (which still often have “Atlanta” addresses), the City of Atlanta Public Works will not service your home. Instead, you may need to contract with a private hauler (like Waste Management or Republic Services) or use your county’s sanitation department. Check your property tax bill to see if you are paying for city sanitation services.