Site Selection recognizes Alabama Power as a Top Utility in Economic Development

Site Selection magazine has once again honored Alabama Power as a Top Utility in Economic Development, recognizing the company’s diverse and extensive economic development efforts.

In 2023, Alabama Power’s economic development team was directly involved in projects that created 1,832 new jobs and attracting an estimated $1.7 billion in new and expanded capital investment.

“Alabama Power continues to be a reliable utility provider for Alabamians in every corner of the state, and I am excited to see them recognized once again. On top of always keeping our lights on, Alabama Power continues to be an invaluable partner in advancing Alabama into the next century,” Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey said. “Alabama Power is one of our state’s greatest promoters of economic development, and that could not be truer than it is now as we are stronger than ever in our public-private partnership to ensure we have an economic development strategy for the 2030s today. Alabama Power truly works for the people of Alabama in more ways than one, and I am proud to have them as a partner in priorities ranging from economic development to broadband expansion.”

The power company has been involved in economic development virtually since its inception, and the ways in which it seeks to spark economic growth is ever-evolving.

Efforts have always included identifying project leads and working with local and state economic development officials in recruiting new projects and addressing needs of existing industries looking to expand. Today, Alabama Power is also involved in programs that help develop new industrial sites, expand broadband in all parts of the state, increase the state’s trained workforce and participation rates, and contribute to the state’s vital innovation economy.

“At Alabama Power, we are committed to driving economic growth, creating opportunities and supporting innovative solutions that benefit our state and its people,” said Leigh Davis, senior vice president of Customer Solutions and Business Development at Alabama Power. “This recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to driving economic growth and supporting the communities we serve.”

These are some of the additional programs and services that Alabama Power accomplished in 2023 that prompted the utility’s recognition.

In 2023, Alabama Power supported the passage of the state’s Site Evaluation and Economic Development Strategy (SEEDS) Act, which allocated $40 million to site development, improvement and acquisition. More than 30 communities benefited from grants totaling $28.3 million, resulting in a combined investment of $64 million which was achieved with the addition of the communities’ matching funds.

RELATED: Alabama economic development officials say SEEDS working as hoped as program enters second year

Leveraging cutting-edge Geographic Information System (GIS) capabilities, drone technology, and augmented reality headsets, Alabama Power has identified and developed marketable sites for economic development. The company’s commitment to innovation is further demonstrated through the Techstars Alabama EnergyTech Accelerator, welcoming twelve startup teams from nine states and two international locations, and supporting seven other accelerators and innovation programs across the state.

RELATED: Techstars Demo Day highlights energy innovators’ Alabama experience

Alabama Power also partnered with the University of Alabama and Mercedes-Benz U.S. International (MBUSI) to create the Alabama Mobility and Power (AMP) Center. AMP is now established and home to the Power Research Center, the Battery Research Center and has a workforce development mission as well.

Recognizing the need for robust electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, Alabama Power launched the Make Ready program to support businesses in installing EV charging stations. The program’s success was immediate, benefiting more than 70 businesses in its first year. Alabama Power partnered with the Alabama Clean Fuel Coalition to enhance EV infrastructure support through the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Plan.

RELATED: EV Summit highlights Alabama’s ties to electric vehicles

Alabama Power has helped expand broadband in Alabama at a historic clip by leasing fiber to enable deployment in several communities, helping close the digital divide and providing better access to education, healthcare and economic development opportunities.

The company’s efforts in renewable energy were bolstered by expanding the Renewable Generation Certificate (RGC) authorization, allowing the procurement of an additional 2,400 megawatts of renewable resources over the next six years.

Alabama Power also piloted a utility tree trimming training program in partnership with Ingram State Technical College and the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles, achieving an 80% job placement rate for justice-involved individuals.

The company’s workforce development team collaborated with Alabama Talent Solutions to address workforce challenges and created the Alabama Experience (ALEX) Mobile Career Trailer to connect career seekers with opportunities in the state.

Through strategic partnerships, substantial infrastructure investments, and a commitment to sustainable practices, Alabama Power is a catalyst for economic progress.

“Alabama Power is a valuable ally in our strategic efforts to foster economic growth across the state because its teams are involved in all phases of the economic development process, from assisting in new site development to aiding in the recruitment of new investment projects and supporting existing industry,” said Ellen McNair, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. “It’s no wonder that they are being honored by Site Selection magazine as a Top Utility.”