Connection Summer 2008

In This Issue:

Smart Moves: Electric Materials Handling
Energy tips from Energy Star

Smart Moves: Electric Materials Handling

Save 70-80 percent On Fuel Costs
From unloading raw materials and supplies, to conveying components on assembly lines, to loading pallets bound for warehouses and markets, keeping products and resources moving is the heartbeat of business.

That's why the efficiency of electric materials handling can be such a big economic advantage for your clients. It can also offer architects and engineers helpful solutions in dealing with issues of air quality and tight spaces in loading docks and warehouses.

In addition to major savings compared to fossil fuel systems, electric lift trucks, conveyors, cranes and other transport systems are more economical for your clients to maintain and they offer a longer service life.

"For example, with electric lift trucks, businesses can typically save from $2,000 to $6,000 annually per vehicle," said Cedric Daniels, Alabama Power product manager for electric transportation. "Energy savings of 70 percent to 80 percent, or even more these days at current fuel prices, can quickly add up to a major payback on your equipment investment. Add to that 40 percent lower maintenance costs and a bonus of an average of 30 percent longer service life, and electric lift trucks can significantly reduce operating costs."

Visit www.southerncompany.com/forklift to discover more energy saving tips for your customers.

Cleaner, Environmentally Friendly Operation
With no exhaust emissions, noxious fumes and particles or pollutants, electric materials handling equipment improves air quality for your clients' employees and customers. Cleaner operation also helps to protect their products and premises from residue.

"There are also fewer moving parts, and no engine or exhaust, so there's less vibration and only one-fourth the noise of internal combustion engines," said Daniels. "Quiet, clean operation can help to reduce operator fatigue and improve productivity and safety. Spark-proof designs are also available for use in combustible environments."

Powerful Performance
Today's high voltage drive systems for lift trucks have increased speed and acceleration and the ability to handle larger loads. They can work in steeper inclines and are sturdy for outdoor operation. Electronic controls also allow precise placement and maneuverability in tight spaces, as well as smooth handling of delicate loads.

Fast Charging
There's no need for your clients to lose time or productivity changing batteries. Electric materials handling equipment is available with fast-charging capabilities so it can be rapidly charged during breaks and shift changes. This allows equipment to continue being used for multiple shifts, so it stays productive without long delays for recharging.

To learning more about the advantages electric materials handling equipment can offer your clients, talk with your Alabama Power account manager or call our Business Call Center today at 1-888-430-5787.

Choose Your Option:

Convenient Bill Management
For the convenience of our customers, Alabama Power offers several choices for managing your power bill automatically.

Automatic Bank Draft
You can arrange to have your bill paid automatically by bank draft from your checking or savings account. In addition to saving postage, you don't have to remember due dates.

On your monthly bill, you will see the amount due based on your current meter reading and the date your bank account is scheduled to be debited.

E-Bill
You can receive your bill by e-mail and then choose to either pay it automatically by bank draft, in person at an Alabama Power business office or conveniently online through your bank account. Online payments are credited in two to three business days.

It's quick, easy and secure, protected by state-of-the-art encryption. You can print a copy of your bill for your records if needed, and review the last 13 months of your bills online.

Summary Billing
Businesses with 10 or more accounts in any combination with Alabama Power, Georgia Power, Gulf Power or Mississippi Power may qualify for summary billing.

There is no limit to the number of accounts that can be placed on a summary bill. Some accounts may not be eligible for Summary Billing. For details, call 1-866-506-2640.

BillMatrix
If you need to make an immediate payment, you can pay by credit or debit card through BillMatrix 24 hours a day, seven days a week. BillMatrix is a separate company not affiliated with Alabama Power, and a service fee will be charged to handle the payment. To pay online, go to www.AlabamaPower.com, click on Pay My Bill, then Credit/Debit Card Payment, and then click the link to BillMatrix. To pay by phone, call 1-800-835-2702.

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When choosing equipment for your business and for your clients' facilities, look for the Energy Star symbol. It's the national mark of excellence in energy performance.

The savings from high-efficiency Energy Star equipment helps to reduce energy costs while helping to build a greener future for the environment.

In fact, if all computers in the U.S. met Energy Star standards of efficiency, businesses would save $2 billion per year and the environment would benefit as much as taking two million cars off the road.

To get an estimate of how much you and your clients can save by selecting Energy Star computers, printers, copiers or other equipment for offices, or heating and cooling systems, lighting and commercial appliances for facilities, look for the energy savings calculators at www.energystar.gov.

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