News Summary
Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative (BREC) marks its 85th anniversary, evolving into South Carolina’s largest electric cooperative. With approximately 75,000 customers and about 7,500 miles of distribution line, BREC addresses modern challenges in energy provision while prioritizing community needs and sustainability. Under the leadership of Jim Lovinggood, the cooperative successfully adapts to increasing energy demands and has also expanded broadband access, showcasing its commitment to customer service and community resilience.
South Carolina – Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative (BREC) is marking a significant milestone this August as it celebrates its 85th anniversary. Established with the mission of providing electricity to underserved regions, BREC has evolved into South Carolina’s largest electric cooperative in terms of land coverage, currently serving approximately 75,000 customers across 1,800 square miles.
Under the leadership of President and CEO Jim Lovinggood, who has been with BREC for 43 years, the cooperative has transformed dramatically. When he joined in 1982, BREC had less than 30,000 meters. Today, that number has nearly doubled, thanks in part to the cooperative’s ongoing commitment to meet the energy needs of a growing South Carolina population.
Building and maintaining the power grid in the state’s mountainous and rural areas has historically posed significant challenges. Crews faced numerous hurdles, including the difficult terrain that once required mules and draft horses to haul utility poles. Today, BREC manages about 7,500 miles of distribution line, reflecting both the demand for reliable energy and the complexities involved in providing it.
BREC employs 175 full-time staff members and collaborates with several hundred contractors to ensure effective service delivery. The cooperative is also adapting to modern challenges, including clean energy initiatives, grid resiliency, and regulatory pressures. Increased demand for efficient power solutions has been noted, as South Carolina’s population continues to grow.
In response to these challenges, BREC has actively lobbied for relevant legislation, such as the South Carolina Energy Futures Act, aimed at expanding energy generation capabilities. The cooperative has been experiencing growth at a rate of approximately 1,500 new meters each year, particularly in regions such as Clemson, Seneca, Easley, and Powdersville.
In addition to its core mission of delivering electricity, BREC has also made strides in expanding broadband access through a partnership with West Carolina Telephone Cooperative. This initiative, titled Upcountry Fiber, aims to provide high-speed internet access to over 43,000 addresses in the cooperative’s service areas, recognizing the need for connectivity in today’s digital world.
Throughout its history, BREC has faced natural challenges, including severe weather like Hurricane Helene, which left 95% of its members without power. Remarkably, the cooperative was able to restore service within two weeks, showcasing its commitment to customer service and community resilience.
BREC emphasizes community involvement through various initiatives, including volunteerism, philanthropic efforts, and employee engagement activities. The cooperative prides itself on a familial culture, with many employees having long tenures of over 25 years. This stability and dedication contribute to BREC’s overall success and the trust it has built within the community.
To further support its members, BREC has implemented an energy efficiency grant program aimed at assisting residential customers. Additionally, the cooperative has recently introduced a budget billing system and a one-time 50% reduction for customers experiencing unusually high peak usage, illustrating its commitment to affordability and accessibility.
Recently, BREC announced a 10% reduction in kilowatt-hour rates, reinforcing its dedication to providing cost-effective energy solutions to its members. The cooperative’s motto emphasizes that its service level is “second only to safety,” highlighting the dual focus on delivering quality electrical services and fostering positive customer relationships.
As Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative celebrates these 85 years of service, it continues to prioritize community needs while navigating the complexities of modern energy provision. With a focus on growth, sustainability, and service excellence, BREC stands ready to meet the evolving challenges of the future.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Upstate Business Journal: Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative’s Challenges
- Greenville Online: Blue Ridge Electric Co-op Celebrates 85 Years
- Your Pickens County: Blue Ridge Electric Celebrates 85 Years
- WYFF4: Blue Ridge Electric Power Bill Increase
- Wikipedia: Electric Cooperative
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
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