The Public Sector Podcast: Delivering Measurable Public Impact in Georgia

Episode Overview

In this episode,Tricia Pridemore, Commissioner, Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) shares how a small but mighty agency keeps Georgia’s utilities safe, reliable and affordable — while modernising its own operations behind the scenes.

Representing a 75-person team that regulates the state’s energy and telecommunications infrastructure 24/7, Commissioner Pridemore highlights how “Team PSC” delivers high-impact results with one of the smallest budgets in state government. From pandemic resilience to digital transformation and major energy milestones like Plant Vogtle, this conversation showcases the operational discipline and innovation powering Georgia’s utility oversight.

Key Themes

The discussion focuses on how strong administration, financial stewardship and smart technology investments enable effective regulation. Despite its size, the PSC has embraced digital transformation, strengthened transparency and enhanced collaboration with the legislature — all while maintaining uninterrupted regulatory oversight.

Commissioner Pridemore underscores the importance of modern systems, efficient processes and cross-agency partnerships in delivering public value.

What You’ll Learn

1. Resilience in Action
   How the PSC maintained every scheduled hearing during the pandemic — never missing a single one — while rotating staff safely and sustaining essential oversight.

2. Financial Modernisation & ERP Implementation
   How a new enterprise resource planning system streamlined budgeting, accounting and reporting, reducing paper-heavy processes and improving transparency.

3. Transparent Oversight of Plant Vogtle
   The PSC’s role in overseeing the nation’s first new nuclear energy project in 30 years — and how consistent monitoring hearings and legislative engagement protected ratepayers.

4. Digitisation of Records & Public Access
   How the Commission modernised document management, reduced reliance on physical media (including CD-ROM submissions), and partnered with State Archives to preserve public records.

5. Upgrading Core Infrastructure
   How modernising the PSC’s phone and hearing systems transformed public engagement, enabling virtual participation and improving consumer responsiveness.

6. Managing Growth & Large Load Demand
   How new rules and integrated resource planning processes are protecting consumers as Georgia experiences rapid economic and energy demand growth.

Key Takeaways

• Strong administration is foundational to effective regulation

• Digital transformation improves transparency and public access

• Small agencies can drive significant statewide impact

• Legislative collaboration strengthens oversight

• Utility regulation underpins every other sector of the economy

Why You Should Listen

This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how a constitutionally mandated regulatory body operates with discipline, innovation and fiscal responsibility. For public sector leaders, regulators and policy professionals, it’s a practical example of how modernisation, teamwork and mission focus enable government to deliver essential services at scale — quietly, reliably and effectively.