SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (January 11, 2006) – The Edison Electric Institute (EEI) today honored Mississippi Power as a winner of the association’s “Emergency Response Award” for its outstanding efforts to restore power in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, one of the worst natural disasters in U.S. history.

EEI, the association of shareholder-owned electric utility companies, presents its “Emergency Response” and “Emergency Assistance” awards annually to both U.S. and foreign-based member companies to recognize outstanding efforts in restoring electric service that has been disrupted by severe weather conditions or other natural events. Winners are chosen by a panel of judges following a national and international nomination process. Awards were presented during EEI’s winter CEO meeting here Wednesday.

All of Mississippi Power’s 195,000 customers were without service after Katrina moved through the heart of the company’s 23-county service area. More than 65 percent of distribution and transmission facilities were damaged, as was one of the company’s primary generating facilities and all of its corporate office space on the coast. Ultimately, the company brought in more than 11,000 outside workers from 23 states and Canada to help restore service in 12 days to all customers who could receive it, a remarkable feat considering initial estimates called for timeframes of up to four weeks.

“This recognition reflects the tremendous dedication and professionalism of every Mississippi Power employee," said President and CEO Anthony Topazi. "They put aside their own personal losses to lead a truly inspired restoration effort. Our employees understand the vital importance of restoring electric service as a crucial first step to recovering from the kind of devastation our community experienced. I'm very proud that our employees and our Southern Company family have helped to rebuild hope in South Mississippi."
EEI President Tom Kuhn praised the quick response to the hurricane, noting the company’s employees often labored under treacherous conditions. “It is an honor to present this award to the men and women of Mississippi Power,” he said. “This industry takes pride in its commitment to service, and their dedicated and swift action in the face of extreme adversity is a testament to that commitment.”