1 of the 7 Cooperative Principles is Concern for Community, and at South Alabama Electric improving the community where we live and serve is a top priority.
SAEC was recently recognized for its efforts as the 2022 Pike County Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year.
This award, which has been presented to outstanding businesses over the last 20 years, recognizes a business that has a resounding presence in the community and generously gives back to the community where it operates.
“SAEC has been a generous member of the chamber and the community,” Pike County Chamber of Commerce President Dana Sanders says. “They have recently completed a new building with the community room, and they are gracious to allow a number of different entities to utilize the space for programs and services that impact our county.”
Chamber members vote to select the recipient each year. Other awards presented annually celebrate excellence in human services, excellence in customer service, a top emerging business and top minority business enterprise, among many others.
“We are deeply humbled to be awarded this great honor,” SAEC General Manager David Bailey says. “This is a direct reflection of the efforts by all SAEC employees. All of our employees, from linemen to member service representatives, are fully committed to serving our members and providing an essential service to our communities. I am extremely proud of the work they do and honored to work alongside them.”
Establishing relationships with partners in the community is essential to nurture a growing and thriving economy. “Any utility service is important, but SAEC plays a major role in economic development when new industries are being recruited. They are vital to bring to the table,” Sanders says.
SAEC has been part of multiple efforts to attract new businesses and industries to Pike County. The cooperative also works to ensure existing businesses have the infrastructure they need for success.
“At South Alabama Electric we work to foster growth and sustainability in the communities we serve so that our members can thrive now and in the future,” Bailey says.
Sanders says SAEC is always ready and willing to help support the community in any way possible.
“We are incredibly grateful for the generosity and support SAEC has shown us. They are always very generous to sponsor chamber events like the annual banquet,” Sanders says. “They are always supportive of any event the chamber does to better our community.”