Pee Dee Electric Cooperative, a member-owned electric distribution cooperative headquartered in Darlington, South Carolina, has been a driving force for progress in the Pee Dee region for over 80 years. With a service territory spanning six counties, Pee Dee Electric provides reliable, affordable electricity to over 72,000 members.
Commitment to Community
Pee Dee Electric is deeply committed to the communities it serves. The cooperative’s mission is to “provide safe, reliable, and affordable electric service while promoting economic development and enhancing the quality of life in the Pee Dee region.” This commitment is evident through the cooperative’s numerous community initiatives, including:
- Economic Development: Pee Dee Electric actively supports economic development efforts in the region, partnering with local businesses and organizations to create jobs and boost the economy.
- Education: The cooperative invests in education through scholarships, grants, and partnerships with local schools and universities.
- Community Outreach: Pee Dee Electric supports a wide range of community outreach programs, including youth activities, senior citizen programs, and environmental initiatives.
Renewable Energy Leadership
Pee Dee Electric is a leader in renewable energy development in South Carolina. The cooperative has invested heavily in solar and wind energy projects, and it is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting a clean energy future.
In 2021, Pee Dee Electric completed the construction of its largest solar project to date, a 5-megawatt facility in Darlington County. The project is expected to generate enough electricity to power over 1,000 homes annually.
Innovative Technologies
Pee Dee Electric is embracing innovative technologies to improve service and efficiency. The cooperative is investing in smart grid technologies, electric vehicle charging stations, and other cutting-edge solutions.
In 2022, Pee Dee Electric launched a pilot program to install smart meters in members’ homes. Smart meters allow members to monitor their electricity usage in real time, which can help them save money and reduce their carbon footprint.
Member Benefits
As a member-owned cooperative, Pee Dee Electric offers a number of benefits to its members, including:
- Competitive Rates: Pee Dee Electric provides electricity at some of the lowest rates in the region.
- Reliability: The cooperative has a proven track record of providing reliable electricity to its members, even during severe weather events.
- Member Ownership: As a member-owner, each member has a say in the cooperative’s operations and can participate in the annual election of the board of directors.
- Rebates and Incentives: Pee Dee Electric offers a variety of rebates and incentives to encourage members to adopt energy-efficient technologies.
Table 1: Pee Dee Electric Membership Statistics
| Year | Number of Members |
|---|---|
| 2010 | 65,000 |
| 2015 | 70,000 |
| 2020 | 72,000 |
Table 2: Pee Dee Electric Renewable Energy Projects
| Project | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Darlington Solar Project | 5 MW |
| Lee County Solar Project | 2 MW |
| Georgetown Wind Farm | 100 MW |
Table 3: Pee Dee Electric Innovative Technologies
| Technology | Description |
|---|---|
| Smart Meters | Allow members to monitor their electricity usage in real time. |
| Electric Vehicle Charging Stations | Provide convenient charging options for electric vehicle owners. |
| Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) | Generate electricity from renewable sources or combined heat and power systems. |
Table 4: Pee Dee Electric Member Benefits
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Competitive Rates | Pee Dee Electric provides electricity at some of the lowest rates in the region. |
| Reliability | The cooperative has a proven track record of providing reliable electricity to its members, even during severe weather events. |
| Member Ownership | As a member-owner, each member has a say in the cooperative’s operations and can participate in the annual election of the board of directors. |
| Rebates and Incentives | Pee Dee Electric offers a variety of rebates and incentives to encourage members to adopt energy-efficient technologies. |
Conclusion
Pee Dee Electric Darlington is a dynamic and innovative electric distribution cooperative that is committed to providing reliable, affordable electricity while promoting economic development and enhancing the quality of life in the Pee Dee region. With a strong focus on renewable energy, member benefits, and innovative technologies, Pee Dee Electric is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of its members in the years to come.