Southern Power and Lighting

Asignificant shift is taking place in the global renewable energy landscape, with solar farms playing a pivotal role. This expansion is fueled by several factors, such as declining solar panel costs and increasing environmental awareness. Even though technological advancements have improved solar farms’ efficiency and storage capabilities, skilled personnel are still required for their installation, operation, and maintenance. In addition, maintaining large-scale solar farms in remote locations presents logistical challenges. Enter Southern Power and Lighting—an electrical distribution construction and storm response contractor that leverages its experience and expertise to ensure uninterrupted operations.

The company specializes in constructing solar farms’ medium voltage (MV) segments. Since its establishment in 2011, the firm has successfully installed and maintained overhead and underground distribution substations, as well as provided comprehensive solar services. Its team of experts in the operations and maintenance (O&M) division is dedicated to responding promptly to any service disruptions, showcasing its commitment to excellence.

“We take great pride in our prompt responsiveness and ability to efficiently restore operations within the solar industry. We aim to minimize downtime and enhance the performance of the solar systems,” says Jimmy Butler, president of Southern Power and Lighting.

By prioritizing its collaboration with customers, the company identifies improved solutions, whether it is to address ongoing concerns or assist with transitions resulting from mergers with other solar entities. Its top priority is to inform clients about the industry’s latest advancements and construction practices.

Securing prompt assistance in emergency situations is a significant challenge in the solar industry. Extended lead times to acquire necessary repair materials often contribute to downtime. However, Southern Power and Lighting proactively tackles this challenge by maintaining a substantial stock of materials that are available 24/7, even on weekends and holidays. By understanding the financial losses and increased stress associated with downtime, the company's primary objective is to respond to customer calls and restore operations quickly.

Unlike larger contractors prioritizing power distribution, Southern Power and Lighting differentiates itself by providing expertise in power distribution and solar services. This versatility empowers the company to operate across various sectors and cater to diverse requirements. Its team of expert professionals has extensive experience in the substation industry and has previously worked for major power providers. Their comprehensive distribution knowledge facilitates underground and overhead resource interconnections. By bringing together a century of collective training and expertise, the team is well-equipped to handle multiple challenges and provide exceptional services.
Southern Power and Lighting's competence was demonstrated in a specific scenario where 80 percent of a 100-megawatt site was non-operational due to issues with the underground infrastructure. The challenging terrain compounded the situation, resulting in significant financial losses. However, the company effectively rectified the issue and restored operations by thorough excavation, removal of damaged sections, necessary splicing, and effective restoration activities.

Considering the solar industry’s substantial growth, Southern Power and Lighting embraces its progression and supports its expansion. The company aims to support the solar industry on its journey, providing the best possible assistance and accommodation.

Southern Power and Lighting stands as a reliable and customer-focused partner in the solar industry. Due to its expertise in solar farm construction and maintenance, commitment to collaboration, prompt assistance, comprehensive expertise, and successful track record, the company is wellpositioned to meet the evolving needs of the renewable energy sector.