News Summary
Alabama Power has received recognition as a Top Utility in Economic Development by Site Selection magazine. This honor highlights their contributions to job recruitment and industrial expansion across Alabama. Their Economic and Community Development team has facilitated the creation of over 2,900 new jobs and attracted $3.1 billion in investments. Key initiatives such as the SEEDS Act and the establishment of the Alabama Mobility and Power Center underscore their commitment to sustainable growth and innovation in the utility sector.
Alabama
Alabama Power has been named a Top Utility in Economic Development by Site Selection magazine for 2024, marking a significant recognition of the utility’s efforts in job recruitment, industrial expansion, and state-wide investments. The company’s Economic and Community Development (ECD) team played a vital role in this achievement, facilitating the creation of over 2,900 new jobs and attracting investments totaling $3.1 billion across Alabama in 2024.
This accolade reflects Alabama Power’s long-standing mission to provide reliable and affordable electricity, a commitment that has been unwavering since the company’s inception in 1906. The utility operates over 74,000 miles of distribution lines and nearly 11,000 transmission lines within its service area, which covers approximately 45,000 square miles of Alabama.
Patrick Murphy, the vice president of economic development at Alabama Power, noted the importance of enduring support for economic growth in local communities. The company implemented several key initiatives in 2024 that contributed to its recognition. Among these was the implementation of the Site Evaluation and Economic Development Strategy (SEEDS) Act, which directed $23.5 million in site development grants to 29 communities throughout the state.
Using advanced Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and drone technology, Alabama Power performed comprehensive analyses of land areas to identify the best sites for SEEDS funding. The collaboration with technology initiatives has continued with the Techstars Alabama EnergyTech Accelerator, which welcomed its fifth cohort in 2024. This cohort featured twelve startup teams from various states and international locations, collectively contributing to job growth within the sector.
A notable development in 2024 was the establishment of the Alabama Mobility and Power (AMP) Center within a new Smart Communities and Innovation Building at the University of Alabama. This center focuses on promoting battery innovation and workforce development in the electric mobility sector. Enhancing this initiative, the University of Alabama Board of Trustees approved $15 million for the creation of the AMP Battery Manufacturing Research Lab, further solidifying Alabama’s place in the electric vehicle battery supply chain.
Alabama Power is also enhancing digital infrastructure by partnering with Southern Company entities to establish a new 300-mile fiber route, improving connectivity for a major data center located in Montgomery. Furthermore, the utility is committed to bridging the digital divide in Alabama, collaborating with the Alabama Fiber Network to extend services to over 500 community anchor institutions statewide.
In its ongoing efforts to promote sustainable energy solutions, Alabama Power’s Renewable Energy Credit (REC) and Renewable Subscription Program (RSP) keep customers connected with renewable energy options. The utility plans to procure an additional 160 megawatts of solar projects to further enhance its sustainability initiatives.
Additionally, Alabama Power has partnered with Jefferson State Community College to create a Distribution Control Center Training Program, aimed at preparing individuals for careers in Power Delivery Operations. The utility also actively assists in applying for federal grants and funding opportunities that align with community and economic development goals across Alabama.
This combination of programs and initiatives demonstrates Alabama Power’s dedication to fostering economic growth and sustainability in Alabama, further cementing its role as a leader in the utility sector.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Alabama News Center: Alabama Power Recognized
- Made in Alabama: Alabama Development Fund Legislation
- Business Facilities: Top Utilities
- AL.com: Mayor Woodfin Honors Griffin Lassiter
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Alabama Power
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
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