When AI finally popped at Southern Company episode artwork

EPISODE · Apr 24, 2026 · 51 MIN

When AI finally popped at Southern Company

from Energy Central · host Energy Central

Utilities everywhere are experimenting with what AI can do in one-off tools and pilot programs, but very few are actually scaling it across the enterprise. But when it comes to truly looking at the big picture of how AI can be a force multiplier, Southern Company is leading the way. To learn how and why the utility is taking a more comprehensive approach, host Kinsey Grant Baker chats with Southern Company’s Joyce Solomon, AMI Analytics and Data Science Manager, along with the utility’s partner in CGI’s Doug Leal, VP Consulting, Data & Analytics. Their conversation looks at how Southern Company, working with CGI, moved beyond proofs-of-concept to build the platform, governance, and culture needed for AI to actually take hold in the business. The story here is not just about technology, it’s about how innovation starts in one place and then begins to “pop” across the organization. From exploring the platform-first approach to how to frame AI as a tool that augments workers rather than replacing them, this episode highlights the key lessons learned to ensure that utilities successfully move from cautious interest to enterprise-wide momentum. Thanks to CGI for sponsoring this episode. CGI is among the largest IT and business consulting services firms in the world. CGI is insights-driven and outcomes-based to help accelerate returns on your investments. Learn more about CGI here: https://www.cgi.com/us/en-us/artificial-intelligence Signup for the Energy Central Daily Newsletter: https://energycentral.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Apr 24, 2026

Embed this episode

NOW PLAYING

When AI finally popped at Southern Company

0:00 51:37

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

No similar episodes found.

No similar podcasts found.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Energy Central?

This episode is 51 minutes long.

When was this Energy Central episode published?

This episode was published on April 24, 2026.

Can I download this Energy Central episode?

Yes. Use the download control on the episode player to save the publisher-provided media file.
URL copied to clipboard!