Sam Wolfe
Google volunteers Jacob Pletcher and Kevin Roberson build a wheelchair ramp Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2026 in Moncks Corner (Provided)
MONCKS CORNER — Berkeley Electric Cooperative has been awarded $500,000 in support from Google to support energy improvements, home repairs and community services for low- to moderate-income households in the Lowcountry. This grant follows a $250,000 grant in 2025, bringing Google’s total contribution to Berkeley Electric Cooperative to $750,000.
The 2025 grant funded energy efficiency upgrades, including mini-splits and heat pumps, in 44 Lowcountry households. These upgrades will save households hundreds of dollars in energy costs each year. This new grant will build on that success, expanding the initiative’s impact for more families across the region.
The funds are administered through the cooperative’s in-house certified energy auditors and in partnership with local nonprofit Hope Repair to support pre-weatherization and health and safety improvements for local homes.
To mark the occasion, Google volunteers joined Berkeley Electric and the Hope Repair team on the ground Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2026 for a special volunteer event to celebrate the grant announcement. During the service project, volunteers assisted with home improvement and weatherization work on two Moncks Corner homes, making a direct contribution to energy-efficiency improvements for area residents.
“Berkeley Electric is proud to leverage this grant and create partnerships essential to uplifting families and creating lasting change in the community,” said Mike Fuller, president and CEO of Berkeley Electric. “When we combine our resources, expertise and reach to reduce energy costs and improve living conditions for those who need it most, it enables us to make a more significant impact and a brighter future for all.”
“This grant has opened access to energy-efficiency solutions for our members most in need. Every home made more efficient not only benefits the family but also contributes to a more sustainable energy future,” said Eddie Plowden, director of energy services at Berkeley Electric. “Together, we can make a significant impact and ensure our members can live more comfortably and more affordably.”
Berkeley Electric works with local nonprofit Hope Repair, an outreach ministry of Pointe North Church in Moncks Corner, to help with the projects that are supported by the funding.
“Hope Repair is proud to support this important initiative. We appreciate the opportunity to contribute our expertise in home repairs and weatherization, ensuring that families receive the assistance they need,” said Pastor David Ensor of Hope Repair. “We believe this collaboration will strengthen the positive impact of this program in our community and are excited to work with Berkeley Electric Cooperative to uplift our community.”
The funding to Berkeley Electric Cooperative reflects Google’s commitment to improving energy efficiency in South Carolina.
“Google is grateful to be part of the Berkeley County community, and for the opportunity to support initiatives that increase local resiliency,” said Blan Holman, South Carolina Energy Lead at Google. “Through this collaboration with Berkeley Electric Cooperative, we are helping families lower energy costs, improve home safety and comfort, and investing in a more sustainable community.”