Using Water Wisely

Below average rainfall and low lake levels in the South over recent years have raised public awareness of using water wisely. We're working to conserve water use at our plants. Most plants return about 95% of the water necessary for power generation back to the waterway from which it was taken. To learn more about how water is used in plants, visit how plants work.

Water being released back into nature

You also may be interested in visiting The Water Course, a project of Alabama Power, with interactive exhibits and displays that teach the importance of water in our daily lives. The Water Course

Southern Company is a proud sponsor of the Georgia Aquarium. View the Why Rivers Matter, to You, to the World, to Southern Company brochure.

Here are some water-saving tips:
Incorporating these small changes into your daily life can make a significant impact on the environment, as well as on your monthly water bill.

Run your washing machine and dishwasher only when they are full. Doing so can save up to 1,000 gallons a month.
Time your shower to keep it under 5 minutes. Doing so can save up to 1,000 gallons a month.
If your shower can fill a one-gallon bucket in less than 20 seconds, replace it with a water-efficient showerhead.
Keep a container of water in the refrigerator instead of running the tap, reducing water that may go down the drain.
Wash your produce in the sink or a pan that is partially filled with water instead of running water from the tap.
Use a glass for rinse water when brushing teeth instead of letting the faucet run. Shave the same way. An electric razor also saves water.
Use the garbage disposal sparingly. Compost instead and save gallons every time.
Check for leaks. Here's one way: Put a few drops of food coloring in your toilet tank. If it seeps into the toilet bowl, you have a leak. Repairing that leak can save more than 600 gallons a month.
Since we use lots of water to generate electricity, remember to continue your energy conservation practices. Turn off the lights when leaving a room and adjust your thermostat when you are not home.
Check your water meter and bill to track your water usage.

Also, view the EPA brochure: Using Water Wisely in the Home.