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.
The utility industry is undergoing a radical transformation with the integration of new resources such as solar power, battery storage, microgrids and electric vehicles into the grid. Employing advanced energy management technologies, we are working tirelessly to meet electricity demand, balance grid traffic and ensure that our power supply remains dependable, cost competitive and environmentally responsible.
Coordinating these interconnected resources allows us to reduce the need to build additional traditional power generation, leading to significant savings for our members. Here are some of the key ways we’re working to innovate our power grid in South Carolina.
C&I Audit and Demand Management
Central provides incentives to assist commercial and industrial member-owners who wish to have their facilities’ electrical power usage audited to identify feasible solutions for the reduction of energy and/or peak demand.
To participate, reach out to your local distribution cooperative for more information.
C&I Lighting
Incentives are provided to members to reduce the purchase price of premium, reliable energy-efficient lighting products. These products lower members' electric bills, improve lighting quality, and helping avoid costly new electric generation.
To participate, members must complete the online Commercial Lighting Incentive Application found here: C&I Lighting Application. Approval from the distribution cooperative is required before work can start, and a post-installation verification will confirm the upgrades.
Community Solar
Central has developed a community solar portfolio of 4.2 MW amongst 18 member cooperatives.
Central has completed its first combined community solar and battery energy storage system at Berkeley Electric Cooperative.
Demand Side Tools (DST)
Created in 2018, Demand Side Tools is a flexible and cost-effective software tool developed to manage various demand-side programs and devices, fitting the cooperative model. Other generation & transmission cooperatives participate due to the success of the program.
Features
- Thermostats
- EV telematics
- Battery systems
- Generators
- Traditional load management devices
Dual Fuel Heat Pump Program
A dual-fuel heat pump is a heat pump with a gas furnace and an outdoor thermostat, which cuts off the heat pump at a set temperature. Below this temperature, all the heat is provided by the gas furnace. Dual Fuel Heat Pump systems are designed to replace gas heating systems, increase kWh sales, and avoid system peak usage. Members are offered rebates for each new install.
EnergySmartSC is a campaign to help members understand distributed energy resources such as solar, electric vehicles, and generators while positioning our cooperatives as their consumers Trusted Energy Advisor.
EnergySmartSC.org provides educational resources, segmented messages, and savings information to help members reduce energy usage and save money.
GreenSC
GreenSC is a renewable energy program designed to meet member owners' sustainability and renewable energy goals. It includes a market-based renewable energy credit (REC) program.
Cooperatives can opt into the M-REC program by filling out an online application, specifying the allocated amount and type of REC. Central will acquire RECs based on requests and availability.
Optiwatt
Optiwatt is a mobile app that allows members to manage their electric vehicle charging, helping utilities control charging to manage electric load and support grid reliability.
Members can connect their EV to the Optiwatt app and enable the SC Electric Cooperatives EV Charging Program. Participants can opt out of demand response events if necessary.
Peak Alerts
The Peak Alert program is a free and voluntary initiative where members can sign up to receive alerts asking them to reduce electricity use during peak demand times.
Central coordinates peak alert communications and provides management through Demand Side Tools. Promotional materials and statewide contests are available to encourage participation.
Smart Thermostat
This program uses smart thermostats to better manage home heating and air systems, reducing energy consumption during high-demand periods to save members money while reducing strain on the electric grid.
The program is managed using Demand Side Tools and includes various promotional materials to encourage enrollment.