Delaware Electric Cooperative Inc (DEC) is a member-owned electric distribution cooperative based in Greenwood, Delaware, United States. Established in 1936, DEC serves over 100,000 members in Kent and Sussex counties in Delaware. The cooperative is committed to providing reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to its members. In line with this commitment, DEC has been actively involved in developing renewable energy projects, particularly in the solar sector.

DEC's solar projects are aimed at reducing the cooperative's reliance on fossil fuels, lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and providing cost-effective electricity to its members. The cooperative has been investing in solar energy since 2011, when it installed its first solar array at its headquarters in Greenwood. Since then, DEC has installed several solar arrays across its service territory, including on rooftops, carports, and ground-mounted systems.

One of DEC's largest solar projects is the Sussex County Solar Park, which was completed in 2016. The park is located on a 20-acre site in Georgetown, Delaware, and consists of over 16,000 solar panels. The park has a capacity of 4.0 MW and generates enough electricity to power over 600 homes. The project was developed in partnership with Constellation, a subsidiary of Exelon Corporation, and was financed through a power purchase agreement (PPA) with the Delaware Sustainable Energy Utility.

Another notable solar project developed by DEC is the Co-op Community Solar program. The program allows DEC members to purchase solar panels and receive credits on their electricity bills for the energy generated by their panels. The program is designed to make solar energy accessible to all members, regardless of their ability to install solar panels on their own properties. The program has been well-received by DEC members, with over 1,000 panels sold since its launch in 2017.

DEC has also installed solar arrays on several of its own facilities, including its service centers and substations. These arrays not only provide clean energy to the cooperative but also serve as educational tools for members and the community. DEC regularly hosts tours of its solar facilities and provides information on the benefits of solar energy and how it works.

In addition to its solar projects, DEC has also invested in other renewable energy sources, such as wind and hydroelectric power. The cooperative purchases renewable energy credits (RECs) from wind farms in Pennsylvania and West Virginia and has a small hydroelectric project in Sussex County. These projects, along with DEC's solar initiatives, have helped the cooperative reduce its carbon footprint and promote sustainable energy practices.

DEC's commitment to renewable energy has not only benefited its members but also the wider community. The cooperative's solar projects have created jobs and economic opportunities in Delaware, particularly in the construction and installation of solar panels. The projects have also helped the state meet its renewable energy goals and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels.

Overall, Delaware Electric Cooperative Inc is a leader in renewable energy development, particularly in the solar sector. The cooperative's commitment to sustainability and its members' needs has resulted in the successful implementation of several solar projects, which have provided clean energy and cost savings to its members. DEC's efforts have also contributed to the wider goal of promoting sustainable energy practices and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.