Welcome to our dedicated page for Southern news (Ticker: SO), a resource for investors and traders seeking the latest updates and insights on Southern stock.
The Southern Company reports news about an energy provider serving 9 million customers through electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in four states, Southern Power, PowerSecure, fiber optics and telecommunications services. Recurring updates cover earnings, dividend actions and operating developments across Alabama Power, Georgia Power, Mississippi Power, Southern Power and Southern Company Gas.
Company news also includes Georgia Power matters before the Georgia Public Service Commission, including resource planning, capacity procurement, solar resources, transmission and distribution upgrades, grid reliability programs, storm readiness and customer safety communications. PowerSecure updates focus on distributed energy solutions such as utility-scale battery storage, solar generation, backup power and resiliency projects.
Alabama Power Company has appointed Jeff Peoples as its new CEO and chairman of the board, effective immediately, succeeding Mark Crosswhite who retired. Peoples, who has been with the company since 1984, previously served as executive vice president overseeing customer services and labor relations. His extensive experience includes various roles at Southern Company Gas. Alabama Power, a subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE:SO), serves 1.5 million customers across Alabama, emphasizing its commitment to reliable and affordable electricity.
On January 5, 2023, Southern Company's Board of Directors appointed Chris Womack as president and CEO, effective March 31, 2023, succeeding Thomas A. Fanning, who will become Executive Chairman. Womack has a solid background within the company, including roles as president of Georgia Power. The Board also announced several other executive appointments to enhance leadership continuity and operational focus, reflecting a strategic succession plan to adapt to an evolving energy landscape. This change aims to strengthen Southern Company's commitment to clean and reliable energy solutions.
Southern Company, in partnership with PROPEL, Disney, and the HBCU Week Foundation, has awarded a $50,000 scholarship to Somalia Gilliard from Atlanta. This marks the second scholarship given as part of a $100,000 initiative announced in October. Gilliard, a senior with a 3.9 GPA, plans to study chemistry at either Alabama State University or Florida A&M University, aspiring to develop an organic beauty product line. The scholarship aims to alleviate financial burdens for HBCU students, with payments made in annual installments.
Virginia Natural Gas (VNG) has awarded a $750,000 grant to the Salvation Army to assist vulnerable customers with energy bills this winter. This is the largest single grant in the company's history, aimed at funding the EnergyShare program, which provides financial aid to those in need. The donation reflects VNG's commitment to community support during challenging times. In 2021, about 120 families received assistance through this program, with that number rising to 150 in 2022. The company emphasizes its partnership with the Salvation Army in helping local families.
The Georgia Natural Gas Foundation has awarded $370,000 in grants to eight nonprofit organizations in Metro Atlanta dedicated to supporting children and education. Notable recipients include Arthur M. Blank Family Youth YMCA and Children's Museum of Atlanta. These donations aim to promote equity and improve educational opportunities for youth amid ongoing public health and economic challenges. Funded by Southern Company Gas, these annual grants reflect the foundation's commitment to community development and support for organizations that enhance the lives of local children.
Southern Company has earned an A- for the third consecutive year in the 2022 CDP Climate Change Disclosure, showcasing leadership in environmental transparency in North America. This score, indicative of best practices in climate strategy, underscores the company's commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, aiming for net zero by 2050. Key highlights include expanded reporting on Scope 3 emissions, third-party assurances on emissions data, and comprehensive risk analyses related to climate impacts. The company emphasizes ongoing stakeholder engagement through transparent disclosure.
Georgia Power has achieved the top ranking for residential customer satisfaction among large utilities in the South, according to J.D. Power's 2022 Electric Utility Residential Customer Satisfaction Study. The company excelled in key areas such as Price, Corporate Citizenship, and Customer Care. Additionally, it was recognized for business customer satisfaction in the same segment. This recognition underlines Georgia Power's commitment to delivering reliable service to its 2.7 million customers despite rising electric bills nationwide.
On December 14, 2022, Southern Company announced a significant milestone in its partnership with Mississippi State University’s Raspet Flight Research Lab. They successfully demonstrated the capabilities of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for mapping critical infrastructure and assessing weather-related damage.
This initiative aims to enhance safety, reliability, and efficiency in utility inspections while pursuing FAA approval for beyond visual line of sight operations. Southern Company also received a pioneering BVLOS waiver, enabling safer and more efficient inspections at Alabama Power's Plant Barry, compared to traditional methods.
Virginia Natural Gas (VNG) has presented a $100,000 grant to the Hampton Roads Workforce Council (HRWC) for the NextGen Regional Internship Program, aimed at providing paid internships for young adults aged 16-21. This program enhances workforce training, helping participants gain valuable skills for future employment. Notably, more than 80% of interns secure high-quality jobs, with 98% continuing further education. VNG's commitment follows previous donations of $10,000 in 2021 and $25,000 in 2019, reinforcing its role in developing a skilled workforce in the Hampton Roads area.
The Georgia Natural Gas Foundation has donated $120,000 to HouseProud Atlanta to support no-cost home repairs for low-income seniors, veterans, and disabled homeowners in Atlanta. This initiative aims to protect vulnerable seniors from 'equity theft' by predatory investors amid rising home values. HouseProud collaborates with local groups to identify those in need and ensure that homes remain safe and livable. The grant reflects the Foundation's commitment to enhancing community welfare and improving the lives of those it serves.