Central Electric Power Cooperative chosen for federal clean energy program
Powering through the storm: how co-ops prepare for hurricane season
Hurricane season in the Southeast is a time when preparation becomes more than just a good idea, it’s essential. Here in South Carolina, the possibility of severe weather is always present. Strong winds, heavy rains and flooding can cause widespread outages and damage to the electric grid.
At Central Electric Power Cooperative, our mission is to provide safe, reliable and affordable electricity to our member cooperatives year-round — and that means getting ready long before a storm hits.
Just recently, Broad River Electric Cooperative welcomed teams from Edisto Electric Cooperative, Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative, Little River Electric Cooperative, Laurens Electric Cooperative and York Electric Cooperative for a collaborative discussion on mutual aid coordination, logistical challenges and practical solutions. This included initiatives like creating relationships with local hotels and vendors, identifying fuel partners and designating key emergency point-of-contact employees across departments.
How we and our member co-ops prepare before the first storm forms
Long before a storm appears on the radar, our cooperative teams are:
- Inspecting and reinforcing the system — Crews patrol lines, check substations and trim vegetation around power lines to prevent damage from falling limbs.
- Stocking critical materials — Transformers, poles, wire and other equipment are strategically stored so they can be accessed quickly for restoration.
- Training for rapid response — Employees participate in storm simulations and safety drills to ensure everyone knows their role in a restoration effort.
During and after the storm
When severe weather is imminent, co-ops go into full readiness mode:
- Monitoring weather updates and positioning crews ahead of landfall.
- Restoring power first to critical facilities like hospitals, emergency shelters and water treatment plants before moving to homes and non-essential businesses.
Working together across the co-op network
One of the greatest strengths of the cooperative model is mutual aid — and we’ve seen that in action time and again.
When Hurricane Helene struck in 2024, it left 1.25 million South Carolinians without power, including 425,000 electric co-op members. The storm damaged more than 5,000 power poles, toppled transmission lines and left over 80 substations offline, making it one of the most devastating storms in decades.
Our 19 member-owned co-ops responded immediately. Every cooperative in the state deployed line crews, with 12 co-ops sending mutual aid crews: Berkeley Electric, Black River Electric, Coastal Electric, Edisto Electric, Fairfield Electric, Horry Electric, Lynches River Electric, MPD Electric, Palmetto Electric, Santee Electric, Tri-County Electric and York Electric. Partners like Santee Cooper and Duke Energy played key roles in re-energizing substations.
Help came from far beyond our borders, with crews from 23 states, including California, Maine and Texas, arriving to assist. Our materials supplier, CEEUS, delivered 20–30 truckloads of equipment daily, a response that rivaled Hurricane Hugo’s recovery effort in 1989. This kind of collaboration truly embodies the cooperative principle of “Cooperation among Cooperatives.”
What co-op members can do to prepare
While co-ops work to strengthen the grid and plan for emergencies, our members can take simple steps to protect their home and family:
- Assemble an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, water and nonperishable food.
- Charge your devices ahead of a storm and keep backup power banks ready.
- Stay informed with local news and weather alerts.
- Report outages promptly so crews can prioritize repairs.
Hurricanes test the strength of our communities, but they also reveal the power of working together. By preparing in advance, collaborating with co-ops near and far and staying committed to our members, Central Electric and our cooperative partners ensure we can weather the storm and restore power as quickly and safely as possible.
Together, we’re more than ready for whatever this hurricane season brings.
Stay connected.
Staying informed means staying prepared — before, during and after the storm.
Check The Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina’s Storm Outage Map, where you can track power outages by county or cooperative 24/7 to stay informed during severe weather.
Beat the Peak: Why Timing Energy Use Matters
Summer is in full swing across South Carolina, bringing long, sunny days, high temperatures, and plenty of time inside to cool off from the heat. It’s also the season when our state’s electricity use is at its highest, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
At Central Electric Power Cooperative, we’re dedicated to providing safe, reliable and affordable electricity to the member cooperatives we serve across South Carolina. During the summer, when air conditioners are running nonstop and households are using more energy, the demand for electricity skyrockets, putting pressure on the grid and driving up the cost of electricity.
That’s why we’re working with member co-ops to help their members “Beat the Peak” by using electricity more efficiently during high-demand hours.
What are Peak Hours?
These are the times of day when electricity consumption is at its highest. Electricity usage typically peaks during 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. during the summer months.This is the hottest time of day as well as the most active time for a household. During the winter, those times are usually 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
When everyone uses a lot of electricity at the same time, it creates high demand and strains the energy grid. Meeting that demand generally requires additional power generation which induces more costs. Over time, those added costs can make a large impact on all cooperative members.
Why this Matters
South Carolina summers are incredibly hot, making air conditioning essential. In our region, AC is one of the biggest factors driving electricity use. When demand rises during the afternoons and early evenings, the cost to provide electricity surges, and the grid faces additional pressure.
That’s why Central Electric is encouraging our members to make small changes to their daily power use during peak hours.
Easy Ways to Beat the Peak
There is an easy solution to this problem and it doesn’t require you to lessen your electricity intake, it only asks that you be smart about when you use it. Here are a few tips to help your co-op and you:
- Run large appliances outside of peak hours: Run the dishwasher, wash clothes, and dry laundry at other times of the day, such as the morning or later in the evening.
- Adjust your thermostat: Cool your home early in the day before the heat kicks in, and allow your AC to be turned down during those peak hours.
- Charge your electronic devices overnight: Avoid charging your phones/tablets/laptops between 3-6 p.m. unless absolutely necessary. Instead, schedule charging overnight or during off-peak hours to take advantage of lower rates and reduce grid pressure.
- Utilize ceiling fans and blinds/curtains: Shut blinds and curtains during peak hours to keep hot sunlight out, and turn on ceiling fans rather than immediately bumping up the AC.
By implementing these simple steps into your daily routine, you’re helping your co-op reduce demand and keep electricity flowing for your community.
As South Carolina continues to grow, our energy demand will also increase. That’s why Central Electric is always looking for ways to expand our energy portfolio and innovate the way we generate electricity. Learn more about our energy portfolio here and what we’re doing now to look out for the future of South Carolina.
Ask the Expert: How Does Hot Weather Strain the Energy Grid?
As South Carolina faces another extremely warm summer, Central Electric Power Cooperative is working tirelessly to ensure our member cooperatives continue to receive the energy they need at affordable rates. To better understand exactly what Central is doing behind the scenes, we interviewed our Power Supply Portfolio Manager, Steven Harrington, to dive into how the hot weather impacts our electric power grid and what we’re doing to support the state’s needs.
1. Why is the grid more strained during the summer months?
When we experience multiple days with temperatures in the 90s to 100s, our air conditioners are working overtime and run more frequently, increasing peak demand on the grid. Peak demand causes our power plants to run at maximum capacity throughout the day to ensure there is enough power to meet demand. We typically have enough planning reserves to meet excessive demand, but it is possible for the grid to become too strained, leading to potential unplanned outages.
2. Explain ‘peak demand’ and why it matters.
Peak demand refers to the highest level of electricity use during a given hour each day. It typically occurs between 3 to 6 p.m. in summer and 6 to 9 a.m. in winter. Utilities must accurately forecast peak demand to ensure enough power is available. If supply falls short, temporary outages may be necessary to maintain grid stability.
3. What role does Central play in increasing grid reliability?
Central plays a huge role in increasing grid reliability and has implemented several programs for members to help better manage our loads and reduce peak demand. Examples of these programs include Beat the Peak, smart thermostats, water heater controls, voltage controls, and controls to bring large industrial members temporarily offline during peak demand. These programs save members money and help support the grid during critical times in the summer and winter.
4. How has population growth impacted the grid in the past several years?
South Carolina’s population and economic growth are putting more stress on the grid. Industrial expansion, residential development, and interest from large data centers all contribute to higher demand and thus a need for more generation. Central works closely with power suppliers to ensure current and future energy needs are met, without disrupting service to existing members.
5. What are utilities doing to strengthen the grid and prepare for summer surges?
Utilities continue to plan and prepare to either build or purchase additional power resources to meet current and future demand. We also work closely with our power suppliers to ensure members receive reliable, affordable energy for years to come.
The programs like Beat the Peak and the smart thermostats make a huge difference, so Central also works closely with member cooperatives to provide these educational resources for their members. Some members are also implementing time-of-use rates to incentivize members to reduce energy usage during peak hours during the day, which has been very successful in lowering energy use during peaks and the grid strain.
6. Are renewable energy sources, like solar, playing a role in relieving some of the pressure?
Yes, solar helps relieve some of the pressure on natural gas and coal plants, especially during the summer months. With the peak demand happening between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., the sun is still out and can help generate energy to support the grid. However, solar doesn’t fully cover all generation needs since the sun is not always out. We are also investing in battery energy storage systems that store energy during low-demand periods, which can be deployed during peak hours.
7. What can households do to help lessen the strain on the grid in South Carolina?
Households can sign up for peak alerts and participate in programs from their utility providers. If they are cooperative members, there are several programs in which they can participate that help the cooperative reduce peak demand.. Ultimately, the more households working together to reduce demand during peak periods, the greater impact we will see on the grid.
8. Are there any long-term strategies being discussed to help boost grid reliability in South Carolina?
The largest impact will be the South Carolina Energy Security Act (H.3309) the South Carolina General Assembly passed earlier this year. This bill enables more in-state power generation, streamlines regulations, and prioritizes long-term grid reliability. It’s a strong example of state leaders responding to energy needs.
To ensure we continue meeting future grid demands and provide affordable, reliable energy, we will need to continue collaborating between utilities and lawmakers. Strategic partnerships and smart investments in our state’s energy ensure a brighter, safer future for South Carolina.
Outdoor Summer Safety Tips: Power Lines, Cookouts and Landscaping Projects
Summer is officially here in South Carolina, bringing more time outdoors for cookouts, gardening and making memories with family and friends. June is also National Safety Month – a timely reminder to brush up on a few simple ways to stay safe while enjoying the season.
At Central Electric Power Cooperative, safety is always a top priority—for our 19 member cooperatives and the more than 2 million South Carolinians they serve. As the wholesale power provider for South Carolina’s electric cooperatives, we support the transmission infrastructure that keeps homes and businesses across all 46 counties powered. But with great power comes great responsibility—especially when it comes to electrical safety.
In recognition of National Safety Month, here are a few key tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe around electricity this summer.
Be Aware of Power Lines
Power lines are essential for delivering electricity but can be extremely dangerous if you’re not aware of their location. Always look up and identify overhead power lines before beginning outdoor activities like landscaping, planting trees, playing outside or setting up for a cookout.
Trees often grow near power lines, and our member cooperatives regularly perform right-of-way maintenance to keep those areas safe. If you have concerns about trees near power lines, contact your electric provider. Never attempt to trim or remove trees near power lines yourself—leave that to the professionals.
South Carolina’s summer storms can also bring down power lines. If you see one, do not touch it. Call your local utility immediately. Even if the line appears inactive, it could still carry a live current. Stay at least 50 feet away.
Call 811 Before You Dig
Before you dig—whether you’re planting a garden, installing a mailbox or starting a larger landscaping project—always call 811. This free, statewide service will mark underground utility lines so you can avoid hitting electric, gas or water lines.
Knowing what the colored flags or spray paint represent can keep you safe:
- Red – Electric power lines
- Yellow – Gas, oil, or steam
- Orange – Communication lines, cables, or conduit
- Blue – Potable (drinkable) water
- Purple – Reclaimed water, irrigation, and slurry lines
- Green – Sewer and drain lines
- Pink – Temporary survey markings
- White – Proposed excavation
Even a small project can become dangerous if you accidentally strike a utility line. If that ever happens, call 911 and your electric provider right away.
Outdoor Electrical Safety
Enjoying summer in South Carolina means spending time outside—but always be cautious when using electricity outdoors. Keep these safety tips in mind:
- Keep all electrical appliances and cords away from water, including sprinklers, pools and wet grass.
- Use outdoor-rated, weatherproof outlets equipped with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs), which quickly cut off power if a fault is detected.
- Use extension cords sparingly, and only those labeled for outdoor use. Make sure cords are in good condition—no fraying, cracking or exposed wires.
- Leave electrical work to licensed professionals. DIY electrical jobs may seem like a cost-saving idea, but hiring a qualified electrician ensures the work is done safely and correctly.
Safety Starts with Awareness
At Central, we’re proud to support the safe, reliable transmission of electricity across South Carolina. But safety starts at home. By staying alert and following a few simple precautions, you can help ensure your summer is safe and enjoyable.
Learn more about seasonal safety tips from one of our member cooperatives, Mid-Carolina Electric, at https://www.mcecoop.com/outages-safety/safety-tips/.
Charging ahead: Central explores the future of EVs
At Central Electric Power Cooperative, we’re committed to powering South Carolina’s future with innovative, sustainable solutions, and that includes exploring the role electric vehicles can play in our operations and in the lives of our members.
As part of that effort, we’ve added a fully electric 2025 Volvo EX90 to our fleet. It’s the only EV in use by our team right now, but it’s not our first. Over the years, we’ve tested earlier-generation models such as the Nissan Leaf and Chevy Volt to better understand how EVs fit into the work we do. While not every vehicle met our operational needs, each trial has given us valuable insight into the range, performance and charging logistics.
This new addition isn’t just about adding a car. It’s about continuing to learn, lead and share what we know about electrification with our members.
Built in South Carolina, powered by cooperatives
What makes the EX90 especially meaningful is that it’s built right here in South Carolina. Volvo manufactures this SUV in Ridgeville at a facility powered by Edisto Electric Cooperative, one of our member cooperatives. That means our EX90 was built using electricity that Central secured and Edisto Electric delivered.
By investing in an EV made with cooperative-supplied electricity, we’re supporting South Carolina jobs and reducing our carbon footprint.
EV charging basics: what to know
Understanding the different types of EV chargers is key to making informed choices whether you’re charging at home or on the road:
- Level 1 chargers (120V): Plug into a standard outlet and provide 2-5 miles of range per hour. Suitable for overnight use, but slow for full charges.
- Level 2 chargers (240V): Common in homes and public spaces, these deliver 10-30 miles of range per hour and can fully charge an EV in 8-12 hours.
- DC fast chargers (480V): The fastest option, typically found at public stations. They can recharge a battery up to 80 percent in about 30-45 minutes, depending on the vehicle.
Charging costs vary based on electricity rates, battery size and charger type. For example, fully charging the Volvo EX90 (with an estimated 111 kWh battery) at home might cost between $12 and $18, depending on local rates. At a commercial DC fast charger, it could cost more – typically $20-$30 for a full charge, with the tradeoff being a faster charge.
You can learn more about EV basics, charging types and cooperative incentives on EnergySmartSC.org.
Driving forward, one mile at a time
Beyond investing in the EX90, Central will continue to explore technologies that keep us on the cutting edge of our industry. Only by continuing to learn and innovate can we continue to deliver power as reliably, affordably and sustainably as possible.
A Career with Purpose: Working for the South Carolina Electric Cooperative System
Electric cooperatives do more than just provide power to their service territories – they are deeply rooted in the communities they serve, offering rewarding career opportunities in a family-oriented environment. Career opportunities within the electric cooperative network combine stability, purpose, and a strong sense of community, making it an ideal career path for people looking to be an essential part of the communities they serve.
A Wide Range of Career Opportunities
One of the great parts of working for an electric cooperative is the variety of roles available and the ability to advance into different parts of the cooperative. Whether you’re interested in working outdoors, solving technical challenges, or providing excellent member services, there’s a place for you in the South Carolina electric cooperatives.
Some of the most common positions include:
- Lineworkers: The backbone of our member cooperatives, linemen work on the front lines to maintain and repair powerlines during regular maintenance and emergencies. This role requires hands-on skills, a dedication to safety, and a willingness to work in all kinds of weather.
- Engineers: Our electric engineers play a crucial role in designing and improving the cooperative’s infrastructure. From developing and testing electrical equipment to maintaining safety standards, cooperative engineers are constantly working to ensure the electrical grid is efficient, reliable, and prepared for future growth.
- Member Services Representatives: Our member service representatives are the face of each electric cooperative, assisting members with billing, service requests, savings tips, and other general inquiries. These employees have the important responsibility of building and maintaining strong relationships between the cooperative and the community.
More Than Just a Job
Cooperatives operate with members in mind, and that same philosophy extends to the people working in the cooperatives. Employees often find long-term careers within the cooperative system because of the supportive work culture and meaningful connections they build.
Unlike investor-owned utilities, cooperatives are not-for-profit organizations that prioritize service over profits. Our employees take pride in knowing their work directly impacts the communities they live in, keeping families and businesses powered daily.
Whether you’re climbing poles, designing electrical systems, or assisting members, you’ll be part of something bigger at an electric cooperative – serving your community while keeping the lights on for your neighbors, family, and friends.
Apply Today!
Lighting The Way To A Greener Future
This Earth Day, Central Electric Power Cooperative is proud to reflect on our progress with sustainable energy and the road ahead. As we look to build a more reliable energy future for South Carolina, we are deeply committed to diversifying power sources, reducing carbon emissions, and investing in the latest technologies, transforming how we provide electricity for member-cooperatives with future generations in mind.
Diversifying our Energy Mix
Since 2005, Central’s energy portfolio has undergone a dramatic shift. What once relied almost solely on coal has become a more balanced, lower-carbon mix of generation sources. Over the past two decades, we’ve cut coal power generation in half.
- Coal: 79% → 35%
- Natural Gas: 9% → 24%
- Nuclear: 10% → 18%
- Renewable/Non-Carbon: 0% → 5%
- Purchased: 0% → 16%
Because of these investments and forward-thinking, about 70% of Central’s member-cooperatives’ energy needs were met by zero-carbon or reduced carbon-emitting resources in 2022. We’re incredibly proud of this progress but know there’s always room to grow, so our team is constantly working to find innovative ways to shape our power sources.
Powering Progress through Partnerships
One of the many ways we’re able to explore new sources of clean, affordable energy is through our purchasing agreements. Our long-standing Coordination Agreement with Santee Cooper gives us access to a mix of various energy sources, securing a reliable supply for our member-cooperatives.
Our Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Duke Energy is another way we’re tapping into a diversified portfolio of energy sources. More than 50% of Duke’s energy comes from nuclear power and, like Central, is transitioning to natural gas, renewables and solar generation through strategic investments throughout the grid.
Impactful, Local Projects
From local solar partnerships to battery storage, Central is bringing clean energy solutions to the communities we serve:
- Volvo Solar Project: A purchase power agreement with a solar developer to support Volvo’s corporate sustainability goals at the manufacturing site in Berkely County.
- Horry County School Solar Projects: There are rooftop solar installations at two elementary schools in Horry County. Central purchases half of the solar energy they generate, while the schools use the rest to lower their energy bills and earn net metering credits.
- Berkeley Electric Cooperative Community Solar and Battery Installation: In partnership with Central, Berkeley Electric installed a Tesla lithium-ion battery system at its community solar site. The battery charges with solar energy during low-demand periods, providing a valuable load management tool.
And we’re not stopping there. Central and Santee Cooper have each contracted for a portion of the 200 MW AC of new solar currently under development at the Lambert 1 and 2 sites in Georgetown County. This forward-looking effort underscores Central’s dedication to advancing renewable energy and delivering sustainable power solutions to its member-cooperatives. It’s a powerful example of how we are investing today to meet the energy demands of tomorrow.
Powering a Cleaner, Smarter South Carolina Together
As we reflect on Earth Day, we’re reminded that the journey toward cleaner energy is not only reached with new technologies but also by working together with our statewide partners to achieve a reliable energy grid for generations to come. We’re eager to continue working alongside our member-cooperatives and other partners to keep South Carolina moving forward.
Behind Every Light Switch: The Vital Role of Co-op Lineworkers
They’re that important—lineworkers are celebrated twice every April in the co-op world. Some electric cooperatives recognize Lineworker Appreciation Day on the second Monday of the month, while others mark the occasion on April 18 – the date officially designated by Congress. Either way, it’s a time to honor the dedicated men and women who power our lives.
These professionals, working across South Carolina’s electric cooperatives, brave the elements and face danger daily to ensure our communities stay connected. Their commitment, courage and skill are the backbone of the cooperative system, playing an essential role in delivering reliable electricity to more than 2 million South Carolinians.
Skilled. Brave. Always on.
Becoming a lineworker requires hundreds of hours of rigorous training and an unwavering commitment to safety. The job demands technical precision, quick thinking and the courage to work in hazardous conditions—all while often sacrificing time with family.
At Central Electric Power Cooperative, our 900-mile transmission network spans the state, supporting the 19 electric cooperatives that serve homes, schools, hospitals and businesses across South Carolina. None of this would be possible without the unwavering commitment and persistence of the talented lineworkers who build and maintain the co-op system. Their collective expertise ensures that electricity is delivered safely and efficiently to every member of the cooperative network.
A commitment beyond boundaries
The S.C. electric cooperative lineworkers’ dedication extends beyond their daily responsibilities. Embodying the cooperative principle of “Cooperation Among Cooperatives,” lineworkers regularly volunteer to help their sister co-ops restore power after large-scale outages and natural disasters.
Their willingness to respond—sometimes across state lines—demonstrates the unity and strength of the cooperative network. When crises strike, these professionals are among the first to act, working tirelessly until the last light is back on.
Building tomorrow’s workforce
Looking ahead, the continued strength of South Carolina’s electric cooperatives depends on a new generation of trained professionals. That’s why many of our member cooperatives partner with local technical colleges to offer hands-on training programs that prepare students for high-demand careers in the energy sector.
By investing in education and workforce development, we’re helping ensure that skilled, safety-focused lineworkers are ready to serve South Carolina’s energy needs for decades to come.
Join us in saying “thank you”
Throughout April – and every day – we invite you to join us in thanking the lineworkers who keep South Carolina powered. Rain or shine, day or night, lineworkers face tough conditions with grit, expertise and heart.
Their work powers our everyday lives. Let’s show our appreciation by sharing a message of thanks on social media using #ThankALineWorker.
Because behind every light switch is a lineworker who makes it all possible.
Central Electric Power Cooperative awarded $500M for clean energy projects
COLUMBIA, S.C. – The power supplier for South Carolina’s 19 electric cooperatives has secured $500 million in federal support for an array of clean energy projects needed to meet the Palmetto State’s growing electricity needs – saving a significant amount of money for rural cooperative members across the state.
Columbia-based Central Electric Power Cooperative Inc. will receive nearly $442.2 million in grants and more than $57.8 million in zero-interest loans through the Empowering Rural America (New ERA) program.
The funding will reimburse up to 25% of Central’s costs for power purchase agreements that will deliver nearly 700 megawatts of nuclear energy, solar power and battery storage capacity to more than 900,000 cooperative accounts across all 46 S.C. counties.
This carbon-free energy will reduce Central’s annual greenhouse gas emissions by more than 2.2 million tons, the equivalent of removing 480,000 gasoline-powered cars from the road, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which administers the program.
“This is tremendous news for Central, our member cooperatives and the 2 million South Carolinians who rely on electric cooperatives for electricity,” said Central CEO Rob Hochstetler. “These funds will be a big help as we continue to meet South Carolina’s growing energy demands as safely, reliably, affordably and sustainably as possible.”
Funded through the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, New ERA is a $9.7 billion program meant to help rural electric utilities nationwide add power to the grid while transitioning to cleaner forms of energy. The program represents the largest investment in rural energy infrastructure since the 1935 Rural Electrification Act.
Central, based in Columbia, has pursued New ERA funding through a competitive grant process for more than a year. The cooperative was announced as a potential recipient in October 2024 and was officially selected earlier this month.
“South Carolina’s rapid growth has come with great challenges for the power grid, but Central and our state’s electric cooperatives are always looking for creative solutions that minimize costs for our consumers,” said Berl Davis, chairman of Central’s board and CEO of Palmetto Electric Cooperative in Ridgeland. “This award is just another example of that hard work paying off for South Carolinians. We are deeply honored to be entrusted with this historic investment.”
The grant is also a boon to the electric cooperatives’ efforts to recruit industry and jobs to rural South Carolina, said James Chavez, CEO of South Carolina Power Team, the cooperatives’ economic development arm.
“Now more than ever, major industries are conscientious about their carbon footprint,” Chavez said. “They want their energy mix to be as clean as possible. These carbon-free energy projects help make the South Carolina cooperative system more attractive for capital investment.”
Central will use the federal funding to partially cover the cost of purchasing power from the Catawba Nuclear Station in York County and from several solar projects. Below is a breakdown of the purchase power agreements:
| Project name | Megawatts | Grants | Zero-interest loans |
| Catawba Nuclear Station | 150 | $306,464,331 | $57,841,264 |
| Lambert 1 solar farm | 72.5 | $19,431,483 | |
| Lambert 2 solar farm | 72.5 | $19,431,483 | |
| Georgetown solar farm | 50 | $13,484,336 | |
| Additional solar | 200 | $68,907,782 | |
| Battery storage systems | 150 | $14,439,323 | |
| Total | 695 | $442,158,738 | $57,841,264 |
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About Central: Central Electric Power Cooperative, Inc., is a not-for-profit generation and transmission cooperative headquartered in Columbia, S.C. Together, Central and its 19 member cooperatives provide power to about 2 million South Carolinians across all 46 counties and 70% of the Palmetto State’s land mass. South Carolina’s independent, member-owned electric cooperatives formed Central in 1948 to pool their resources to purchase wholesale power more efficiently and effectively. As explained in its mission statement, Central “exists solely for the benefit of its members,” and one of Central’s most important jobs is to plan for the future power supply needs of its member cooperatives.
Central Electric Power Cooperative chosen for federal clean energy program
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Central Electric Power Cooperative, Inc., has been selected to participate in a federal clean energy program that is helping rural electric utilities meet the nation’s growing demand for power.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced Oct. 25 that Central, which supplies power to 19 electric cooperatives in South Carolina, is one of six selectees for the Empowering Rural America (New ERA) program’s second round of funding.
In the coming months, Central will work with the USDA to secure up to $500 million in grants and low-interest loans to help pay for an array of clean energy projects. The funding will support the addition of roughly 700 megawatts of nuclear power, solar energy and battery storage to the statewide cooperative system, which delivers power to roughly 2 million South Carolinians in all 46 counties.
Together, these projects will generate enough electricity to power hundreds of thousands of homes for years to come, helping South Carolina’s co-ops affordably meet rising energy needs in one of the country’s fastest-growing states.
“South Carolina must produce more power to accommodate its explosive growth,” said Central CEO Rob Hochstetler. “This federal funding helps us meet those needs in a way that produces less carbon emissions while keeping energy costs as low as possible for our consumers.”
The $9.7 billion New ERA program, funded through the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, is meant to help electric cooperatives across the country transition to cleaner forms of energy.
New ERA funding includes a mix of low- and no-interest loans as well as grants that can cover up to 25% of a project’s total cost. The selectees announced Friday morning include cooperatives that serve rural energy consumers in Arizona, Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico, Minnesota, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas and Wyoming.
Central, based in Columbia, expects to use the money to partially cover the cost of purchasing power from several solar farms as well as the Catawba Nuclear Station in York County.
Contact: Avery Wilks, 803-374-3115, avery.wilks@ecsc.org
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About Central: Central Electric Power Cooperative, Inc., is a not-for-profit generation and transmission cooperative headquartered in Columbia, S.C. Together, Central and its 19 member cooperatives provide power to about 2 million South Carolinians across all 46 counties and 70% of the Palmetto State’s land mass. South Carolina’s independent, member-owned electric cooperatives formed Central in 1948 to pool their resources to purchase wholesale power more efficiently and effectively. As explained in its mission statement, Central “exists solely for the benefit of its members,” and one of Central’s most important jobs is to plan for the future power supply needs of its member cooperatives.