Bennettsville will use this investment toward eligible projects, which could include improvements to infrastructure and community services and promotion of economic growth, the company said in a Jan. 21 statement.

According to the statement, the investment is “made possible through the SC Rural Development Act of 1996, which allows electric cooperatives to receive a credit against their annual state license fee.” These utility tax credits can be applied toward qualifying projects in communities the cooperative serves. The 1996 act amends the Code of Laws of South Carolina, 1976, and provides guidelines for the use of the state rural infrastructure fund and for redevelopment fees by redevelopment authorities.

“Investing in the city of Bennettsville and supporting projects that create lasting value for its residents and workforce is something we take great pride in,” MPD President and CEO William L. Fleming Jr. said in the statement. “As a local electric cooperative, we are dedicated not only to providing reliable electric service, but also to advancing economic development and community prosperity.”

Bennettsville Mayor Tyron Abraham said in the statement, “MPD Electric Cooperative’s contribution enables us to move forward with meaningful improvements that will benefit our community.”

MPD Electric Cooperative supplies electricity to residents, businesses, and industries in Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Lee, Marion, and Marlboro counties. It was formed by the 2020 merger of Marlboro Electric Cooperative and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative, the statement said.