Issue link: https://alabamapower.uberflip.com/i/1087775
44 INNOVATION STATION In November 2018, Alabama Power launched a unique program partnering with homebuilders to bring "smart" neighborhoods to communities across the state. The innovative program is an extension of the company's Reynolds Landing Smart Neighborhood, a research project of 62 homes in suburban Birmingham. The flagship project has received national acclaim, notably from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, which named it one of the most innovative energy projects in the country. Building off the success and initial research findings of Reynolds Landing, the Smart Neighborhood Builder Program promotes energy efficiency by partnering with builders interested in developing homes featuring advanced energy products and automation. These future-focused communities are designed to make customers' lives more comfortable, convenient and connected through features that can be managed by smart devices and voice activation. "We continuously strive to provide innovative energy solutions to improve the quality of life for our customers," said Greg Barker, executive vice president for customer services. "With Smart Neighborhood Builder, we expect to see the future of homebuilding become a reality in our state through industry-leading partnerships and the program's growth." Among the first homebuilders to commit to the program were Holland Homes and Harris Doyle Homes, with plans for neighborhoods in Auburn, and Curtis White Companies with a neighborhood planned for Leeds. Construction on these three communities will begin this year. Through a partnership with Vivint Smart Home, a leader in smart home technology, each Smart Neighborhood home brings together energy- efficiency measures and smart technologies, including voice- activated security, smart locks, lights, cameras and garage door control. Smart Neighborhood Smart Neighborhoods finding home in Auburn, Birmingham and Leeds Smart Neighborhood homeowner uses Vivint Smart Hub.