Alabama Power's new technology aims to improve storm response

February 20, 2026 - 02:11

A new technological system is being implemented by Alabama Power with the goal of significantly improving the utility's reaction to severe weather and widespread outages. The initiative, known as SPEAR, focuses on enhancing real-time coordination and communication, fundamentally changing how restoration efforts are managed.

The technology integrates advanced data analytics and mapping tools to provide a more precise and immediate picture of damage across the grid. This allows crews to be dispatched more efficiently, targeting the most critical repairs first to restore power to the greatest number of customers in the shortest time. Furthermore, the system is designed to foster direct, streamlined collaboration with county emergency management agencies. This partnership ensures that power restoration efforts are closely aligned with public safety priorities, such as clearing roads for first responders and prioritizing hospitals and shelters.

Company officials emphasize that SPEAR represents a major investment in infrastructure resilience. By moving from manual processes to an integrated digital platform, the utility aims to reduce overall outage durations and improve situational awareness for both its crews and community partners. The deployment comes as part of a broader strategy to strengthen the electrical system against increasingly frequent and intense storm seasons, with the ultimate focus on accelerating recovery for communities across the state.