An elected utility regulator wants Georgia Power to present options to expand solar energy projects in the state.

Public Service Commissioner Lauren "Bubba" McDonald Junior on Tuesday asked the Southern Company subsidiary and the PSC staff to present options within 30 days for expanding solar power.

He said solar power could be a reliable source of clean energy and protect against volatile fossil fuel prices.

McDonald said the power company could add more solar power in a request for proposals that seeks ways to boost its capacity to generate electricity in the coming years. He also suggested Georgia Power could enter into a purchased power agreement to add more solar power.

Georgia Power officials said they will gather options and present them to the commission in about a month.

Tags: Georgia, Georgia Power, Public Service Commission, solar power