Google grant helps Berkeley Electric members make energy upgrades

For many households, an inefficient heating and cooling system can affect both comfort and monthly energy costs. Berkeley Electric Cooperative, one of Central Electric Power Cooperative’s 19 member cooperatives, is helping address that challenge through a partnership with Google, Hope Repair and other community organizations.

Google recently awarded Berkeley Electric a $500,000 grant to support energy-efficiency improvements for low- to moderate-income members. The grant follows a $250,000 award provided last year, bringing Google’s total contribution to Berkeley Electric’s program to $750,000.

The initial funding helped 44 Berkeley Electric households make improvements, including the installation of ductless mini-split heat pumps. The new grant is expected to benefit approximately 100 additional households.

Berkeley Electric’s certified energy auditors manage the program alongside Hope Repair, an outreach ministry of Pointe North Church in Moncks Corner. Together, the organizations identify qualifying homes and determine which upgrades can provide the greatest benefit.

Ductless mini-split systems can provide efficient heating and cooling without traditional ductwork. This can be especially helpful in homes with older HVAC systems or leaky, inefficient ducts. In addition to improving energy efficiency, the systems can help improve comfort and indoor air quality.

For Berkeley Electric members Russell and Deborah Johnson, the upgrades have already made a meaningful difference. After receiving a ductless mini-split system through the program, the couple experienced improved comfort in their home and saved an average of approximately $60 per month on their electric bill.

Berkeley Electric’s energy-efficiency program is an example of how electric cooperatives connect technical expertise with local partnerships to help members improve their homes and manage energy costs. Central Electric Power Cooperative provides wholesale power and transmission solutions to Berkeley Electric and South Carolina’s 18 other electric distribution cooperatives.