Garland, NC – Four County Electric Membership Corporation proudly hosted the ribbon-cutting ceremony for its highly anticipated Community Solar Project on Friday, December 6, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at 14313 US 701 Highway North, Garland, NC 28441.
The event featured remarks from principal representatives, including Kenneth Thornton, the Vice President of Four County’s Board of Directors. Also, in attendance from our esteemed Board of Directors were Carlton Raynor, East Duplin District; Mary McGill Rose, East Sampson District; and Director at Large, Clayton Hollingsworth. In his speech, Thornton highlighted the project's significance:
"We recognized a need among our members for a solar option—1 that could serve those who are unable to install solar on their own roofs due to shading, property ownership limitations, or other circumstances. With the support of the North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation (NCEMC), Cape Fear Solar Systems of Wilmington, and the USDA Rural Development team through their REAP Grant, our community solar garden became a reality. Today, we are proud to offer a solar solution that meets the diverse needs of our community while reinforcing our commitment to innovation and sustainability.”
The ceremony also included remarks from Jim Musilek, Vice President of Innovation & Business Development at North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation (NCEMC); Robert Parker, Chief Operating Officer of Cape Fear Solar Systems; and Robert E. Kerns, Public Information Officer at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Kerns stated, "The investment made by North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation will pay dividends almost immediately. The objective of the USDA Rural Development REAP Program is to provide guaranteed loan and grant funding to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems or to make energy efficiency improvements."
The Community Solar Project demonstrates Four County EMC's dedication to providing sustainable energy solutions. This initiative offers businesses and residents the opportunity to subscribe to solar energy shares, allowing access to clean energy without requiring onsite solar infrastructure.
“We were thrilled to unveil this innovative Community Solar Garden and mark a significant milestone in advancing clean energy for our community,” said Don Gatton, Chief Executive Officer of Four County EMC. “This initiative showcases our dedication to energy innovation and sustainability.”
With programs like the Community Solar Garden, Four County EMC continues its mission to deliver safe, reliable, and affordable energy solutions while improving the quality of life for its members.
For more information about Community Solar, please visit Four County EMC Community Solar.
Four County operates as a not-for-profit electric cooperative owned by its members, who have a voice in its operations through a member-elected Board of Directors. We serve over 35,000 active meters across Bladen, Sampson, Duplin, and Pender counties, with some service in Columbus, Cumberland, and Onslow counties.
Contact:
- Kristen Hole, Innovative Electrification Specialist, (919) 601-1268
- Alice Heitchue, Content and Digital Marketing Specialist, (910) 540-0740