Ask the Expert: Why meter data matters
Ask the Expert: turning data into decisions
Every day, Central employees use their expertise to support our members, strengthen the electric grid and keep the cooperative running efficiently. Through our new Ask the Expert series, we’re highlighting the people behind the work and sharing insights into the roles, technologies and challenges that help power our organization.
In this edition, we feature Nathan Mendez, Applications Developer/Database Administrator, whose work helps transform complex data into meaningful information for employees and member cooperatives. From developing software applications to managing databases and supporting tools like MeterHub, Mendez plays a key role in helping Central make data-driven decisions. He also shares his perspective on emerging technologies, common misconceptions about software development and advice for those interested in a technology career in the utility industry.
Tell us about your role as Applications Developer/DBA at Central.
As an Applications Developer/Database Administrator at Central, I design, develop and maintain software applications and databases that support the organization’s operational and business needs. My role involves creating solutions that improve how data is collected, managed and shared across the company while ensuring our software and databases remain secure, reliable and efficient.
I work closely with employees and member cooperatives to develop tools that provide better visibility into critical information, helping teams streamline processes and make more informed decisions using data.
How long have you been with Central and what led you into software development and database management?
I’ve been with Central for two years.
My interest in software development started in college while taking differential equations, where I realized I enjoy solving complex problems. Programming gave me a way to combine logic, creativity and problem solving into something practical.
As I continued my coursework, I found myself drawn to projects that involved building solutions and automating processes. I enjoyed breaking down complicated challenges into smaller, manageable pieces and finding efficient ways to solve them. Over time, I expanded into database management, where I discovered the importance of organizing, maintaining and analyzing data to support business decisions.
What I enjoy most today is developing systems and processes that help turn large amounts of data into useful information that our members can rely on.
What types of applications and systems do you support?
Central supports a range of applications and systems that help transform operational data into meaningful insights for employees and members.
One primary external application is MeterHub, a member-facing portal that provides transparency into metering data. Members can access reporting tools, data analytics and meter validation information for the meters they serve.
Internally, I support several applications that help track and manage assets across the cooperative system. These tools provide efficiency and visibility into operational equipment and transmission asset specifications, while improving cross-departmental coordination. By having accurate information, these systems support planning, maintenance activities, inventory management and billing processes.
A large part of what I do at Central happens behind the scenes and involves integrating data from multiple systems into a centralized environment for reporting and analysis. We collect information from several external platforms, as well as through automated file transfers using secure processes such as SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol). Once the data is received, we use data workflows to validate, clean and standardize the information before making it available for reporting and analytics.
How are data and software changing the electric utility industry today?
Data and software are transforming the electric utility industry by providing greater visibility into how the grid operates and enabling teams to make faster and more informed decisions.
Utilities can analyze large amounts of data from meters, substations and other equipment to improve reliability and identify issues before they become a problem.
What emerging technologies are you most excited about from a utility perspective?
Artificial intelligence and advanced analytics have the potential to help utilities make better use of the large amounts of data generated across their systems.
By identifying patterns and trends that might otherwise go unnoticed, these technologies can support more informed decision making, improve operations and enhance reliability. As the industry continues to evolve, AI and advanced analytics can help utilities become more proactive, efficient and resilient.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is helping bring people’s ideas to life.
They come to me with a challenge or an idea for improving a process, but they aren’t sure how to make it happen. I enjoy working through the problem, designing solutions and building something that turns their vision into reality.
What’s a common misconception people have about database and application development?
I think a common misconception is that database management and application development is just about writing code.
A large part of the job is understanding people’s needs, identifying problems and designing a solution that fits into how they work. Success often depends on communication, planning and understanding business processes.
The best solutions come from working closely with users to turn ideas and challenges into tools that make their jobs easier.
What advice would you give someone interested in a career in technology within the utility industry?
Focus on being a great problem solver and never stop learning.
Technology changes quickly, but the ability to understand a problem and create a solution will always be valuable. It’s also important to learn the business side of things and understand how your work impacts the people who rely on the systems.
Listen to your co-workers, ask questions and be willing to take on a challenge outside of your comfort zone. The more you understand both the technology and the business, the more effective you’ll be.
From Standby to Strategy: Central Electric Repositions Commercial Generators
Central Electric Power Cooperative is piloting a new approach to grid resilience by tapping an often overlooked asset already sitting behind the meter: commercial backup generators. The program provides flexible capacity during pre-emergency events while giving participating businesses a way to put existing equipment to work.
Central, a generation and transmission cooperative based in Columbia, South Carolina, provides power to 19 distribution cooperatives. Central and its members serve more than 940,000 meters and over 2 million residents across 79,000 miles of power lines, reaching consumer-members in all 46 counties and more than 70% of the state’s land mass.
Scott Hammond, director of member programs at Central, said the idea emerged as the cooperative evaluated how to meet long-term resource needs.
“We have a goal of adding 25 megawatts of new distributed energy resources on the Central system as part of our diversified resource plan,” Hammond said. “As we started looking at options, our co-ops raised the idea of using existing commercial generators that are already installed at businesses.”
Rather than treating generators as a traditional demand-response or peak-shaving resource, Central’s program focuses on reliability and resilience. The generators would be dispatched only during limited pre-emergency situations, typically before outages occur.
Read the full original article on CFC’s website here.
Smart ways to lower energy use this summer
As temperatures rise across South Carolina, so can your energy use. Summer is often one of the most expensive times of the year to cool your home, but a few simple changes can help you stay comfortable while managing your electric bill.
Put smart technology to work
If you haven’t explored smart technology for your home yet, this summer is the perfect time to get started.
1. Smart thermostats
Heating and cooling account for the largest portion of most household energy bills. A smart thermostat can automatically adjust temperatures when you’re asleep, at work or away from home, helping you reduce unnecessary energy use without sacrificing comfort.
Many smart thermostats learn your daily routine and make automatic adjustments based on your habits. Some models can even be controlled remotely through a smartphone app, allowing you to make changes wherever you are.
2. Smart appliances
When it’s time to replace an appliance, consider an energy-efficient model with smart features.
Examples include:
- Refrigerators that send alerts if a door is left open
- Water heaters that can be programmed to heat water only when needed
- Washers that automatically adjust water levels and cycle lengths based on load size
Look for the ENERGY STAR® label when shopping for appliances. ENERGY STAR-certified products are independently tested to meet strict efficiency standards and can help lower long-term operating costs. https://www.energystar.gov/saveathome
3. Smart plugs and power strips
Not every energy-saving upgrade requires a major purchase.
Smart plugs allow you to control lamps, televisions and other electronics from your phone, making it easy to turn devices off when they’re not needed.
Smart power strips can also help eliminate “phantom” energy use—the electricity consumed by electronics that remain plugged in even when turned off. Devices such as chargers, gaming systems and entertainment equipment can continue drawing power around the clock unless disconnected.
4. Smart shades
Smart shades can automatically open and close throughout the day to help manage indoor temperatures. During the summer, closing blinds during the hottest part of the day can reduce heat gain and help your air conditioner work less.
Simple habits that can save energy
Technology can help, but small everyday habits can also make a noticeable difference.
Try these energy-saving tips this summer:
- Turn off ceiling fans when leaving a room. Fans cool people, not rooms.
- Use kitchen exhaust fans while cooking to remove excess heat and humidity.
- Rinse dishes with cold water before loading the dishwasher.
- Turn off lights, televisions and electronics when not in use.
- Keep air vents and return-air grilles clear of furniture and other obstructions.
- Wash full loads of laundry whenever possible.
- Reuse towels before washing.
Visit your cooperative’s website for specific programs offered by your local electric cooperative.
Small changes, meaningful savings
These small improvements add up over time. Combining smart technology with energy-conscious habits can help reduce energy waste, lower monthly costs and support a more reliable electric grid during periods of peak summer demand.
For more cost-saving tips, visit energysmartsc.org to take control of your energy usage this summer.
Why SC electric cooperatives support the Canadys project
Central Electric Power Cooperative President and CEO Rob Hochstetler penned a Post and Courier guest column detailing why South Carolina’s electric cooperatives support a proposed 2,200-megawatt natural gas power plant in Colleton County.
The joint project by Santee Cooper and Dominion Energy South Carolina was recently approved by the S.C. Public Service Commission.
As Hochstetler explains, South Carolina needs more power, and soon. Since it takes years to permit, design and build power plants, electric cooperatives recognize the need to start now so today’s energy constraints don’t become tomorrow’s energy crisis.
The project at Canadys represents a proven, cost-effective, low-risk and highly efficient first step to meeting South Carolina’s growing energy needs.
Read the full guest column on the Post and Courier’s website.
More than a coin: how Central’s challenge coins tell our story
At Central Electric Power Cooperative, the work we do every day matters—to our member cooperatives and ultimately to the people and communities they serve. While much of that work happens behind the scenes, one tradition offers a tangible reminder of our purpose, culture and shared identity: our annual challenge coin.
Where the tradition began
Central’s challenge coin tradition grew out of a desire to strengthen alignment and engagement across the organization. What began as an extension of project management efforts evolved into something more meaningful—a simple but powerful way to connect employees to a shared mission.
Over time, the coin became more than a token. It became a touchpoint—a way to reflect on where we’ve been, what we value and where we’re going.
What the coin represents
Each year’s coin is intentionally designed to tell a story. It reflects a theme, a focus or a guiding idea that resonates across teams and departments. Together, the coins form a visual and physical timeline of Central’s journey.
More importantly, each coin represents the people behind the work. It serves as a reminder that every role at Central contributes to delivering reliable, affordable power across South Carolina.
As President and CEO Rob Hochstetler puts it:
What we do matters to the end consumer. The challenge coin is a simple but meaningful reminder of that. It helps keep us focused on who we are, why we’re here and how we support the cooperatives and communities we serve.
Why it continues
The challenge coin tradition endures because it delivers something rare—high impact at a low cost. It reinforces culture in a way that is both visible and personal.
Coins are often displayed on desks or shared in conversation, becoming natural conversation starters. They help build camaraderie across teams, spark reflection and create a sense of belonging.
They also serve as a steady reminder of Central’s identity and values. In moments of change or growth, the coins help ground employees in a shared purpose—what Rob described as “a mantra” for the organization.
A growing collection, a shared future
From 2021 through 2026, each coin marks a chapter in Central’s story. As the organization continues to grow and evolve, the tradition helps bring new employees into the fold, signaling what matters and what it means to be part of the Central team.
Ultimately, the challenge coin is more than a keepsake. It’s a symbol of connection—between employees, across teams and with the members we serve.
Each coin carries a story. Together, they tell ours.
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.
The modern lineworker: celebrating the backbone of our grid
When most people think of a lineworker, they picture someone climbing a wooden pole to repair the damage after a storm. But there is a lot more to the job we don’t see every day. These brave men undergo hundreds of hours of rigorous training to play an essential role in delivering reliable electricity to our homes, businesses and communities.
This April, we celebrate National Lineworker Appreciation Day by honoring the South Carolina electric cooperative linemen who work in hazardous and difficult conditions to ensure our communities stay connected. Here are a few ways Central supports these essential co-op employees.
Powering communities at the local level
Electric cooperative lineworkers are the ones members see in their communities—working long hours, often in challenging conditions, to keep the lights on. Whether responding to storms, upgrading aging infrastructure or connecting new services, their work directly impacts the reliability and quality of life for the people they serve.
Their role is both highly technical and deeply personal. They live and work in the same communities as the members they serve, and their commitment shows in every mile of line maintained and every outage restored.
Supporting reliability across the grid
In 2025, our transmission reliability reached its highest level in more than five years. This success was no accident. It came from:
- 79,000 miles of energized lines kept clear and functional.
- Persistent vigilance across all 46 counties.
And a standing principle of Cooperation Among Cooperatives. When local crews need backup, co-ops across the state send lineworkers to help. This coordination of mutual aid helps co-ops respond to major outages with the manpower of a big power company while retaining their local feel.
Join us in showing appreciation
This month, when you turn on a light, take a moment to think of those who keep the power on. Share your appreciation using #ThankALineWorker.
Pilot Programs Supporting Smarter Energy Use
This year, Central Electric Power Cooperative is launching a series of pilot programs designed to better understand how emerging technologies, flexible resources and new rate structures can work together to benefit members, distribution co-ops and Central’s system. These pilots will help inform future program design while testing tools that support affordability, reliability and member choice.
Generator Pilot
Central is launching a generator pilot targeting commercial and industrial members with backup generators larger than 30 kW. The pilot aims to enroll 30 to 40 generators and will utilize Generac’s Blue Pillar devices to issue control and provide measurement.
Sites will be selected based on generator capacity, operational hours and business type to optimize performance while minimizing disruption. All participating generators must meet applicable fuel and emissions standards to ensure environmental compliance.
Participants will be eligible for upfront and performance-based incentives. A $1000 incentive will be awarded upon enrollment, with an additional $250 available for participants who complete a post-program survey and opt out of no more than one event. A $7/ kW per event incentive will be paid as well. This incentive includes an incentive to the member to participate, maintenance costs, and fuel costs associated with operating their generator.
The pilot will help Central evaluate whether the Blue Pillar device performs as expected, whether generators can be effectively controlled through distributed systems technology and whether the data collected supports broader program development. Central will also assess system-level and financial benefits, program management needs, incentive structures, promotion strategies and overall member satisfaction.
Three-Part Rate Education and Optimization Pilot
Central’s three-part rate initiative focuses on helping members understand how their electric rate works and how they can take steps to optimize energy use under a three-part rate structure.
The initiative begins with foundational education that explains what a three-part rate is, how it differs from traditional rate designs and what actions members can take to manage energy use more effectively. Educational content will also highlight technologies that can support optimization, including smart thermostats, electric vehicles and other connected devices.
To support this effort, Central will explore an interactive tool hosted on each participating co-op’s website. Similar to existing EV education tools, this platform would provide members with easy-to-understand, interactive information tailored to their usage patterns and rate structure.
In addition, Central will launch a year-long pilot with Optiwatt focused on members with smart devices—particularly smart thermostats such as Nest, ecobee and Honeywell. The pilot will begin with co-op employees during the first three to four months, enrolling approximately 200 participants, before expanding to up to 500 members.
Key research questions include whether technology-enabled tools increase participation in rate optimization, whether the benefits justify the cost of the technology, how members perceive the value of these tools and whether results differ between winter and summer months.
Residential Battery Pilot
Central is also launching a residential battery pilot for co-ops using two-part and three-part rates, building on the growing number of battery installations already in the Santee Cooper balancing authority.
Currently, there are more than 700 residential batteries across Central’s system. Of those, approximately 52 percent are Tesla systems, 20 percent Generac and 11 percent Enphase, with an average system size of 7.5 kW and 17.7 kWh.
The pilot will evaluate the value of residential battery systems for members and the system as a whole, particularly under alternative rate structures. Central will assess battery performance under two-part versus three-part rates and examine potential member benefits, system impacts and operational considerations.
As part of the pilot, Central will also evaluate original equipment manufacturer and vendor capabilities in coordination with ODEC for distributed systems technology integration. A key focus is enabling a whole-home approach to energy optimization by allowing members to automate smart devices, including thermostats, batteries, water heaters and EVs, to better align usage with a three-part rate.
2025 Annual Report Video
At Central, success starts with one principle: when unified cooperatives cooperate, we’re able to achieve more together. Since our founding, our role has been focused on serving our member cooperatives so they can better serve their communities across South Carolina.
After a strong year of serving our members and delivering on our commitments to the cooperative network, Central Electric Power Cooperative is proud to share highlights from 2025 in our first-ever Annual Report video.
These accomplishments reflect the commitment and collaboration driving our work every day. Watch the full video below.
Focused on What Matters Most
Central’s success is measured by the value we deliver to our members. That focus is grounded in four key pillars:
- Competitive Rates
- Reliable Power
- High-Quality Work Product
- Member Directed
These priorities guide every decision we make, from long-term planning to day-to-day operations.
Investing in Growth and Reliability
South Carolina continues to grow at a rapid pace, and Central is working to ensure the power system keeps up. In 2025, that meant a continued focus on securing and delivering reliable power generation resources while managing costs for our members.
We worked closely with our power supply partners and continued investments in key generation assets, including:
- Catawba Nuclear Station
- Anderson Combined Cycle Plant
- Canadys Station project
At the same time, Central completed 11 transmission projects to support population growth and increased industrial demand across the state.
Delivering Strong System Performance
System reliability in 2025 reached one of the strongest levels in recent years. That performance reflects careful planning, disciplined operations, and the dedication of our team.
Reliable power doesn’t happen by chance. It’s the result of long-term investment coordination with our member cooperatives, and a constant focus on our system performance.
Power by People
Behind every milestone is the Central team. Their continued commitment to collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement drives everything we do. From engineering and operations to power supply and member services, our team works every day to support our members and strengthen the cooperative network across South Carolina.
Looking Ahead
The energy landscape is evolving, and so are the needs of our members. Central remains focused on improving system efficiency, strengthening infrastructure, and planning for the future.
The progress made in 2025 has positioned us well for what’s ahead.
We’re building today for the power needs of tomorrow: responsibly, collaboratively, and with our members at the center.
Here’s to a brighter, smarter South Carolina in 2026.
Ask the Expert: Why meter data matters
Meter data may not always be visible to the people who flip the switch, but it plays a critical role in how electricity is delivered, managed and billed across South Carolina. Kraig Peterson, supervisor of Meter Data Services at Central Electric Power Cooperative, shares insight into what meter data is, why it matters and how it supports Central’s work as a generation and transmission cooperative.
Background and basics
For those who may not be familiar, what is “meter data” and what types of information does it include?
When most people think of an electric meter, they picture the meter can on the side of a home that records how much electricity has been used. Traditionally, that meter displayed a running total, and a utility would record a start and stop reading and use the difference to determine total energy consumption for a billing period.
Meter data comes from that same basic concept. It measures, records and transmits information about how much electricity is being used.
At Central, the meters we manage are typically connected to substations and large industrial transformers rather than individual homes. Instead of only capturing a single total reading, many of these meters collect interval data, which shows how energy use changes at a more granular level. That level of detail provides a much clearer picture of when electricity is being used across the system and helps us better understand overall load behavior.
How has meter data changed over the years with advancements in technology?
Meter data used to come from that manual collection process in the field. Now, with newer meters and better communication networks, we get more reliable data, more frequently. As that data becomes automated, systems can move it quickly, share it across departments, and make it easier to communicate changes with our member co-ops and industrial loads. That helps everyone stay aligned and make better decisions.
What role does meter data play in supporting Central’s operations as a G&T cooperative?
Meter data supports how Central manages peak demand and recovers purchased power costs across its member cooperatives. While billing is often the first thing people think of, meter data also plays a critical role in forecasting and system planning.
The clearer the understanding of load behavior across the system, the better positioned Central is to manage costs responsibly for co-ops throughout the state.
Why meter data matters
Why is accurate and timely meter data so critical to Central and its member cooperatives?
Central operates on a structured monthly billing cycle, and everything begins with accurate meter data delivered on time. Each month, Central produces two types of invoices: industrial and wholesale. Industrial invoices are issued on the first business day of the month, and wholesale invoices follow on the third business day.
One of our rate components is calculated at month-end based on the most recent meter readings. Having every meter read and validated is essential to preparing accurate invoices and reports for the month ahead.
How does meter data support reliability, system planning and forecasting?
Meter data shows how load behaves across the system, from the power suppliers Central works with to the member cooperatives it serves. It helps us see when demand rises, how it shifts during peak periods and how different conditions affect usage. In most cases, it also captures electrical values such as voltage and reactive power, giving engineers a better understanding of how the grid is performing.
How does it impact billing and other financial processes?
Everything starts with the meter. If the data is incorrect at that point, everything downstream can be affected, from the billed invoice, to monthly accounting processes, and even regulatory reporting.
Accuracy affects how costs are allocated and how rates are applied across the system. When that data is right, the prices members see line up with how they actually use electricity.
Why is long-term data retention important?
Central maintains interval data at the station level for well over a decade, in order to support system studies, resource planning and cost validation. As visibility into retail-level interval data expands, the goal is to move beyond modeled or third-party assumptions and rely on actual South Carolina usage data.
Comparing what flows through Central’s meters with what is consumed at the end of the line provides a clearer view of system performance and strengthens forecasting and validation efforts.
Behind the scenes
How do you ensure the accuracy and integrity of the data?
Accuracy begins with daily review. Each morning, the team reviews midnight updates and flags anything that drops to zero, which could indicate a communication issue, or any readings that appear unusually high or low.
Daily voltage checks are also performed. Some meters report a single average value, while others display each phase separately. Those readings are compared to confirm they are consistent and within expected ranges.
Collecting data from every corner of South Carolina is a significant effort. That is why tools and techniques are continually refined to identify issues early and prevent them from affecting billing or reporting.
Automation and the future
How are automation and evolving data systems improving the way Central manages meter data?
Meter data management is becoming more structured and less manual. Much of the routine work now happens automatically in the background, creating a more dependable process.
Automation allows the team to focus less on repetitive tasks and more on analysis and support, equipping colleagues across the organization with clear, reliable information.
A personal perspective
What is one thing people might not realize about meter data and its importance?
As energy prices fluctuate, there are factors no one can control. What can be influenced is how well energy use is understood and managed.
Understanding usage patterns gives people more control than they might realize. Small changes in habits can reduce overall system costs. When the system operates more efficiently, it benefits everyone who pays an electric bill.
Definitions
- Meter Data: Information collected from an electric meter that shows how much electricity is being used or produced. Meter data can include detailed interval information such as kWh, kW, Volts, kVAR, and kVA.
- Energy use: The total amount of electricity consumed over a period of time. It is typically measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), the same unit that appears on an electric bill.
- Demand: The rate at which electricity is being used at a specific moment. It reflects how much power (kW) is needed at one time rather than the total used over time.
- Peak demand: The highest level of electric demand during a given period, such as a day or month. This usually happens when many people and businesses are using electricity at the same time.
- Billing determinants: The specific measurements used to calculate an electric bill. These can include energy use, demand levels and other factors defined in a rate structure.
- Interval data: Detailed meter data that records electricity use in regular time increments, such as every 15, 30, or 60-minutes. This helps show when energy is being used throughout the day.
- Meter level: Information collected directly from a specific meter. It represents the electricity flowing through that exact measurement point.