Central Electric Power Cooperative chosen for federal clean energy program
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.