News & Events
Join Mid-Carolina’s Optiwatt Smart Thermostat Pilot
Mid-Carolina Electric is looking for members to participate in a new smart thermostat pilot program, designed to help participants manage their energy use by shifting heating and cooling to times when energy rates are lower. And there’s an added incentive! Eligible members using Nest, ecobee or Honeywell devices who sign up and are approved before November 1 will be entered into a raffle for a chance to win $250. Participants who successfully complete the Optiwatt pilot will also be entered into a second raffle for another $250 prize in 2027.
MCEC 2026 Youth Tour participant earns $5,000 scholarship for helping local seniors
Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative’s 2026 Washington Youth Tour participant Alena Goveas of Lexington has been named the recipient of the 2026 R.D. Bennett Community Service Scholarship, presented by The Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina. Goveas, a senior at River Bluff High School, was surprised by MCEC and ECSC leaders with news of the award today at her school. The $5,000 scholarship is presented to a South Carolina high school student whose community service project best exemplifies the cooperative principle of “concern for community.”
Community Leadership Council Connects Members to Their Cooperative
For 85 years, Mid-Carolina Electric has delivered innovations that improve daily life while building strong community connections. Our newest effort, the Community Leadership Council, brings together members ages 30–45 to engage younger residents—many new to the co-op—and highlight the community value of working together. Applications for the 2026 cohort are now closed.
Bright Ideas grants spark innovation in local classrooms
For more than 20 years, Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative has supported local classrooms through its Bright Ideas education grant program, providing funding for innovative projects that give students opportunities to learn beyond traditional classroom instruction. The application deadline for the 2026 Bright Ideas grant program is Sept. 14, 2026.
Mid-Carolina VP Receives Prestigious National Industry Award
Mid-Carolina Electric Cooperative Vice President of Engineering, Lee Ayers, has been selected as the recipient of the prestigious Russell B. Dondanville Award, one of the highest honors presented by the Utilities Technology Council (UTC).
Mid-Carolina 2026 Annual Meeting Recap
Mid-Carolina Electric’s 2026 Annual Meeting highlighted record member participation and reinforced the theme MCEC Ready, a commitment to reliability, preparedness, and community service. Members took part in drive-thru registration and voting, received bill credits and gifts, and were entered into prize drawings, including a truck giveaway. The event celebrated member engagement and the cooperative’s ongoing dedication to serving its communities.
