POWERGRAMS

2 SPEAR STRIKES FAST NEW TECHNOLOGY HELPS RESTORE NEW TECHNOLOGY HELPS RESTORE POWER IN RECORD TIME POWER IN RECORD TIME RELIABILITY Predicting the weather isn't new. Predicting when, where and how much it will affect Alabama Power's equipment is – and that makes the new SPEAR program (SPEAR stands for Storm Planning, ETR (estimated time of restoration) and Reporting) a game changer. It is technology that informs the company about what an approaching storm is likely to do to the grid, where the damage will probably be worst and how many crews we need standing by. Alabama Power used 10 years of storm data – every ice storm, tornado and thunderstorm – and compared it with what happened on the electric system. Now, when the next storm rolls in, there's no guessing. The model shows, hour by hour for the next five days, where trouble is likely and how severe it may be. "SPEAR was built to predict outages, understand impact and stage crews more effectively – but also helps us understand and respect the impact storms have on our people," said Shane Powell, director of Power Delivery Data Analytics at Southern Company. "After decades of working alongside Power Delivery crews, I've seen firsthand how severe weather disrupts not only the grid, but their lives – often calling them out at the worst hours and in the harshest conditions. Giving our employees a tool that helps them better serve our customers while also planning for the impact on their personal lives is incredibly meaningful." The technology helps the company position resources to respond to weather-related outages more proactively. SPEAR proved its value during Winter Storm Fern in January. Two days before the storm arrived, SPEAR predicted with 85% accuracy when and where the electric system would be hit hardest, allowing crews and resources to be in place ahead of time. The tool also helps estimate when power can be restored, even before a storm arrives. SPEAR provides the data and confidence to prepare for whatever the weather brings, especially as the company heads into storm season. During the past 30 years, Alabama has seen at least two tornadoes in March and April each year. Last year was significantly active, with 30 tornadoes during those months and 67 total from February to May 2025. The company's innovative approach has earned national recognition. Alabama Power received two Department of Energy grants to pursue more advanced weather analytics. Alabama Power understands that behind every outage, there is a family, a business and a community counting on the company. SPEAR is part of Alabama Power's legacy of putting customers first, using innovation to make a real difference when it matters most. By Anthony Cook SPEAR SHARPENS CREWS' ABILITIES TO QUICKLY RESTORE SERVICE AFTER STORMS As a 120-year-old utility, Alabama Power crews are among the best in the business, and SPEAR boosts their capabilities by fostering: 1. FASTER RESTORATION. SPEAR shows what's coming, allowing crews to position closer to where damage is expected. That means less wait time for customers to get their lights back on. 2. BETTER COMMUNICATION. As soon as a storm starts, the company can give customers realistic estimates of when power should be restored – no more waiting in the dark wondering. 3. SMARTER USE OF RESOURCES. If a storm is expected to hit south Alabama harder than west Alabama, for example, Alabama Power can move crews and equipment where they're needed most – before the first lightning strike.

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