Welcome to our dedicated page for The Southern news (Ticker: SO), a resource for investors and traders seeking the latest updates and insights on The 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.
Georgia Power warns customers of an impending severe storm in the state, marking the third such event in three weeks. The company emphasizes safety and preparedness, urging customers to monitor weather updates and follow storm safety tips. Recommendations include checking emergency kits, securing appliances, and avoiding downed power lines post-storm. Georgia Power highlights its continual investment in infrastructure and Smart Grid technology to enhance reliability and resiliency against severe weather disruptions. The firm remains committed to providing safe, reliable energy to its 2.6 million customers across Georgia.
Georgia Power's Dr. Mark Berry has been appointed Vice Chair of The Electric Power Research Institute's (EPRI) Research Advisory Committee, succeeding Steve Powell. Dr. Berry, who has a strong history with EPRI and Southern Company, will focus on advancing research initiatives aimed at enhancing electricity safety and environmental responsibility. Georgia Power, the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), is committed to delivering affordable and reliable energy, emphasizing a diverse generation mix including renewables.
Southern Power has announced the acquisition of the 300-megawatt Deuel Harvest Wind Farm from Invenergy, marking its largest wind project to date. Located in Deuel County, South Dakota, the facility will contribute significantly to Southern Power's renewable energy portfolio, now exceeding 2,533 MW. The project includes two power purchase agreements: a 25-year deal with Great River Energy starting in January 2023 and a 15-year agreement with Xcel Energy commencing in October 2021. This acquisition supports Southern Company's commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The Georgia Power Foundation announced a $1 million investment in environmental grants to support eight organizations in Georgia, aimed at preserving the state's waterways for World Water Day. The funded projects include creek restorations and pollution mitigation initiatives across various counties. The Foundation's philanthropy strategy emphasizes education, environment, and community empowerment. The Waters for Georgia program is designed for measurable environmental benefits, with each project set to be implemented over two years.
Georgia Power alerts customers of impending severe weather, including thunderstorms, damaging winds, and possible tornadoes. The company advises customers to prepare by monitoring local weather updates and following safety protocols. Key preparedness actions include checking emergency kits, securing electrical appliances, and ensuring safe shelter during storms. Georgia Power emphasizes ongoing investments in infrastructure for reliability and resiliency, including Smart Grid technology to enhance outage response. The firm aims to provide clean, reliable energy while maintaining customer service excellence across Georgia.
On March 12, 2021, Georgia Power celebrated National Solar Appreciation Day by highlighting its extensive solar resources and programs available for customers. The company aims to increase its renewable generation by over 72% by 2025, targeting 22% of its energy mix from renewables. Georgia Power currently has over 2,500 MW of renewable resources and plans to add 2,260 MW, with an emphasis on solar. Key programs include Community Solar and Simple Solar, allowing customers to engage with solar energy even without personal installations.
Nicor Gas, serving 2.2 million customers in Northern Illinois, has announced initiatives to assist 250,000 families living at or below the federal poverty line, exacerbated by COVID-19. The company partners with organizations like the Northern Illinois Food Bank and Greater Chicago Food Depository to combat food insecurity, which has surged by 62% in the area. Additionally, Nicor Gas provided care packages to over 2,000 customers and offers energy assistance programs. These efforts aim to alleviate financial burdens during challenging economic times.
Georgia Power has appointed Fran Forehand as the new senior vice president of Power Delivery, effective April 2, 2021. Forehand, who previously served as vice president of Customer Service and Operations at Mississippi Power, has extensive experience in electric system operations. She will oversee the planning, design, and maintenance of the company’s distribution and transmission systems. This change follows the retirement of Glen Grizzle, who had a 40-year career with Georgia Power. The company aims to maintain reliable energy services for its 2.6 million customers across Georgia.
Georgia Power is enhancing electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure in Georgia by investing $6 million over the next three years to install 49 DC fast chargers, allowing drivers to gain 100 miles in just 12 minutes. This initiative is part of the Electric Highway Coalition, enabling seamless EV travel through a coordinated network from Texas to Washington, D.C. Georgia Power's commitment supports the adoption of EVs, with plans to electrify 50% of its fleet by 2030, emphasizing environmental benefits and expanding access for customers.
On March 2, 2021, Southern Company announced its partnership with five other energy firms to form the Electric Highway Coalition, aiming to develop a network of DC fast chargers across major U.S. highways. This initiative addresses concerns about electric vehicle (EV) charging availability during long trips, with projections estimating 18 million EVs on U.S. roads by 2030. The coalition will enhance travel convenience and support Southern Company's commitment to sustainability, pledging net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and an internal fleet electrification goal by 2030.