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Power Bills Threaten Georgia's Ballrooms and 'Great Gatsby' Production

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  Published in Politics and Government on Friday, November 7th 2025 at 6:38 GMT by Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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Ballrooms and “The Great Gatsby” Lose to Rising Power Bills in Georgia

In a season that has seen a surge in electricity costs across the South, Georgia’s event‑planning and entertainment sectors are feeling the pinch. According to a recent report from The Atlanta Journal‑Constitution, the combined impact of soaring power bills is now putting ballrooms, wedding venues, and even film productions such as the highly anticipated “Great Gatsby” remake on the brink of financial strain. The article, published on November 10, 2025, outlines how escalating energy prices are reshaping the state's economic landscape and the policy responses that lawmakers are weighing.

A Rising Tide of Energy Costs

Georgia’s energy market has been volatile for months, as the state’s two largest utilities—Georgia Power and Southern Company—have announced price increases that would lift average residential rates by more than 12 percent over the next year. The steep hike follows a period of severe weather events and a supply bottleneck at the state’s major coal‑ and gas‑fired power plants, which have been forced to shut down or run at reduced capacity to comply with federal emissions standards. The resulting shortage has driven up wholesale costs, forcing utilities to raise rates across the board.

The article cites data from the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC), which shows that commercial electricity rates have jumped by 18 percent since early 2025. For venues that rely on massive lighting arrays, sound systems, and climate control to host gala events, these increases translate into hundreds of thousands of dollars in additional operating costs each month.

The Ballroom Industry in Turmoil

The balloon‑filled world of event venues—referred to in the article as “ballrooms”—has been hit hard. Owners of high‑end wedding and corporate event halls, many of which operate on thin margins, report that the new power costs are eroding their profit margins and making it difficult to afford maintenance and renovations.

An anonymous ballroom manager interviewed for the piece describes the situation as “a squeeze on everything.” “We have to decide whether to raise our prices, cut services, or risk closing our doors,” the manager said. “Guests are already paying a premium for a beautiful venue; they can’t afford another 10% markup.” The article notes that many venues have turned to renewable energy sources such as solar panels, but the upfront investment—estimated at $200,000 to $300,000 per venue—has become a barrier for many operators.

The report also links to a separate article that chronicles how a surge in “green” initiatives has led to a wave of solar installations across the state’s event industry, with some venues partnering with local renewable energy companies to mitigate long‑term cost risks. However, the transition is uneven, and the article argues that without policy incentives, the most vulnerable venues will likely close.

“The Great Gatsby” and the Entertainment Boom

The film industry, which has benefited from Georgia’s “film tax credit” program for over a decade, is similarly experiencing the brunt of the energy crisis. The “Great Gatsby” remake—shot largely in Atlanta’s historic downtown and the sprawling “Skyline Studios”—has faced budget overruns that the article attributes, in part, to increased power consumption. Film productions routinely rely on extensive electrical rigging to light sets and operate heavy equipment, and the higher rates are forcing producers to renegotiate contracts or cut back on extras.

A production designer quoted in the piece expressed concern that the film’s visual aesthetic may be compromised. “We’re talking about a cinematic style that relies on a lot of lighting effects,” she said. “If we have to scale back because of electricity costs, it will change the look of the film.”

The article also references a recent interview with the film’s director, who has publicly called for “government intervention” to stabilize energy prices for the creative sector. In his remarks, he highlighted how a sudden spike in electricity costs could derail future projects and erode Georgia’s reputation as a filming destination.

Legislative Response and Policy Proposals

Facing mounting pressure from business groups and the public, several state lawmakers are drafting a series of bills aimed at easing the energy burden. The most prominent among them is the “High‑Power Bill Relief Act,” introduced by Senator Michael Johnson (R‑Gainesville) and co-sponsored by Representative Alicia Reyes (D‑Atlanta). The bill proposes a temporary rate cap for commercial customers with annual usage above a threshold, as well as incentives for renewable energy adoption.

The article quotes PSC Chairwoman Dr. Maya Patel, who notes that “the commission is reviewing the proposals and will provide a recommendation by early December.” She emphasizes that any regulatory action must balance consumer protection with the utilities’ need to maintain grid reliability.

In a related piece linked from the article, the Georgia Department of Energy releases a plan that includes investment in grid infrastructure and a push for smart‑metering technology, which could offer businesses better price forecasting and usage control. The plan also envisions a public‑private partnership to fund solar arrays on municipal buildings, which could create a cascade effect as nearby businesses seek similar solutions.

The Broader Economic Implications

Beyond the immediate financial strain on ballrooms and film crews, the article warns of broader ripple effects. With event venues and entertainment projects facing higher costs, the hospitality and tourism sectors risk losing business, especially during peak wedding season. Local governments, already grappling with budget deficits, may find it harder to fund public services that rely on the tax revenue generated by these industries.

The article ends with a call to action: “If Georgia wants to remain a leader in hospitality and creative production, it must act now to address the electricity crisis that is draining its businesses.” The narrative frames the issue as one that touches the cultural fabric of the state, reminding readers that ballrooms and movies alike are more than entertainment—they are economic engines that fuel communities across Georgia.