Alabama Power saw a surge of hydro generation in 2013 due to ample rain and wise management of water resources. The company generated 8 percent of the electricity needs of its customers from hydro resources last year – double the percentage of hydro generation for 2012.

“Hydro generation is one of Alabama Power’s most cost-effective forms of generation and our customers benefit from our stewardship of this natural resource,” said Jim Heilbron, Alabama Power senior vice president and senior production officer.

The increase in hydro generation is mainly the result of last year’s above-average rainfall. That contrasts with much drier weather in 2012, when many areas of the state were suffering from some level of drought.

Turbine upgrades at Lay Dam also helped the company produce more hydro energy last year. Alabama Power has 14 hydroelectric facilities on 12 lakes across the state.

Alabama Power, a subsidiary of Atlanta-based Southern Company (NYSE:SO), provides electricity to more than 1.4 million customers across the state.