POWERGRAMS

19 electricity to enhance the process. Alabama Power employees installed a 40- foot hydroponic container in January 2017 and began producing lettuce one month later. The container has a seed germination table and 256 vertical towers holding up to 17 small heads of lettuce each. Food production at the GSC is not limited to lettuce, and includes basil, arugula, carrots, dill and radishes. Due to automation, the APC container is fairly self-sufficient. However, one to two employees with other work responsibilities spend a little of their time each week planting, harvesting and performing routine maintenance in the container. "Interest in indoor agriculture or controlled environment agriculture is growing either in completely enclosed settings, such as our container, augmented greenhouses or empty buildings, like a vacant mall or Walmart," McFarland said. "It's a great way to provide access to fresh foods and jobs in rural communities and urban settings, particularly in areas of food deserts." Alabama Power's next move on the chessboard that is indoor agriculture is to assess produce production and water and electricity usage, then compare findings with similar projects within Southern Company. "We feel the interest in indoor agriculture is continuing to grow as consumers demand more fresh, local and healthy food options in stores and restaurants," McFarland said. "Alabama Power has always tried to find ways to improve the way of life for our customers, and indoor agriculture is another avenue we are exploring." Farley at entrance to refurbished shipping container.

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