Our planet, our power: how we’re building a greener South Carolina together

Earth Day is a time to recognize progress and renew our commitment to take care of our environment.

At Central, we are focused on delivering reliable, affordable power while advancing a more sustainable energy future. Since 2005, we have reduced coal’s share of our generation mix by 42 percent, moving toward a more balanced, lower-carbon portfolio. Below is a quick snapshot at Central’s energy portfolio with a more balanced, lower-carbon mix of generation sources:

Because of these efforts, more than 60 percent of our member cooperatives’ energy needs were met by zero-carbon or reduced carbon-emitting resources in 2024. While we are proud of this progress, we know there is more work ahead. Our team continues to explore innovative solutions to meet South Carolina’s growing energy needs responsibly.

The next chapter of clean energy

Since 2005, we have built a solid base with zero-carbon nuclear and solar energy. In the next ten years, we plan to grow these efforts to keep up with our state’s needs.

• Central currently has approximately 387 MW of solar generation under contract with various developers and will continue to evaluate additional opportunities that align with our commitment to reliability and cost-effective energy for our members. As part of our long-term planning, we will pursue future solar projects that make strong economic and operational sense.
• We are expanding battery storage initiatives, including a new Residential Battery Pilot. By analyzing how the 700-plus batteries in our system can be automated to support the grid, we can store clean energy during peak production and use it when demand is high, reducing reliance on traditional power plants.

Sustainability starts with smarter energy use

Improving energy efficiency is one of the most practical ways to advance sustainability. Central is proud to support several innovative programs developed by its member-cooperatives to increase energy efficiency, reduce peak power demand and support renewable energy development. Learn more here.

• Smart tech: We are launching a year-long pilot with Optiwatt for three-part rate co-op employee members using smart thermostats. These devices enable a whole-home approach to energy optimization, helping to reduce our collective carbon footprint.
• Participating in peak alerts: Reducing energy use during peak times helps maintain grid efficiency and supports environmental goals
• EnergySmartSC: We encourage everyone to visit EnergySmartSC.org to discover new ways to audit home efficiency and remember that your local cooperative is your Trusted Energy Advisor.

A greener grid for a growing state

As we reflect on Earth Day, we are excited to offer a new 2026 rate for major power users that makes sure these facilities pay for their own infrastructure and cut back on usage during shortages to keep the grid reliable.

By working alongside our statewide partners, we support long-term conservation by building underground transmission lines that protect local scenery and using AI to cut down on energy waste. 

Together, we are creating a legacy of clean, reliable, and responsible power.