The Southern Co., an electricity producer for the Southeastern United States, has used satellite imagery gathered throughout the course of a recently completed three- year project to help increase the efficiency of its operations and to help reduce costs.

The imagery, provided by the Space Imaging‘s Ikonos satellite, has been used by Southern for a number of projects, including environmental applications, land use planning, business development, asset management and transmission line planning and routing. The imagery also played a key role in Southern’s efforts to relicense seven hydroelectric generation facilities.

Southern began the relicensing effort for this electricity producing facilities about 10 years ago and, according to Space Imaging, was one of the first energy companies to use satellite imagery to meet the relicensing guidelines established by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Satellite imagery has simplified that process, allowing Southern to view a larger area of not only specific land features, such as reservoirs and boundaries, but of the properties that surround the hydroelectric plants. Southern submitted the satellite imagery to FERC, as well as state and local government agencies, to demonstrate that it is meeting regulatory requirements.

“The Ikonos satellite imagery has enabled us to plan more efficiently and ensure minimal environmental impact, and will continue to add value for years to come,” said Kenny Lowe, GIS senior specialist at Alabama Power Co., a division of Southern. “The high resolution and accuracy of the satellite images as well as the fact that they reflect the current landscape, provide us with the data we need to make intelligent business decisions.”

Space Imaging said its deal with Southern represents a large usage milestone. “This is a prime example of how satellite imagery is being utilized in the commercial industry to improve efficiencies and save costs,” said Howard Klayman, director of customer service operations at Space Imaging.