The City of Douglas Electric Department is celebrating Public Power Week, October 4-10, 2026 along with approximately 2,000 other community-powered, not-for-profit electric utilities that collectively provide electricity to 55 million Americans across 49 states and five U.S. territories.
“The Douglas Electric Department, like the other 2,000 municipally owned utilities across the nation, is working with one purpose: powering a strong community.,” said Charles Davis, Douglas City Manager. “They go to work each day with a sharp focus on our customers. Since we operate right here in Douglas and serve our friends and neighbors, we care a great deal about things like customer service, helping folks save energy and money, and providing the most reliable service possible.”
The first electrical lights were turned on in Douglas on May 26, 1905. Currently, the City of Douglas’ electrical distribution system consists of 132.15 miles of high-voltage primary lines. The department has 13 employees who serve residents in the city limits of Douglas. The Electric Division is responsible for distributing electric service to more than 5,850 residents and maintaining over 3,160 street and security lights.
When there is a need, the Douglas Electric Department also provides mutual aid to cities in neighboring towns and throughout the United States. In 2024, following Hurricane Helene’s impact, the electric department worked tirelessly and around the clock to restore the city’s power distribution system and reconnect power to city residents. The electric grid in Douglas had to be rebuilt entirely, and 90% of customers had their power restored within eight days. After the citizens of Douglas had power restored, crews provided mutual assistance in the County.
The Electric Department is a member of the Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia (MEAG) and the Electric Cities of Georgia (ECG).