News | January 13 2026
Original Release: Marlboro County
Bennettsville, S.C. - Headwater Energy, a Carolinas-based leader in renewable energy, today announced it is planning to expand its operations to Marlboro County. The company is developing a 75MW solar energy facility, “Monarch Energy” (approximately a $150 million investment) to grow its operations in the Southeast.
About the Monarch Energy Project
Monarch Energy is a solar and battery storage project being developed by Headwater Energy. Once operational, the project will generate 74.9 MW ac, enough clean energy to power approximately 14,000 homes annually. The energy produced will be delivered to Duke Energy Progress, supporting the region’s power needs. Commercial operation of the project is targeted for 2029.
About Headwater Energy
Headwater Energy was founded in 2020 by a team of seasoned solar industry executives, established to seize the growing opportunity in utility-scale solar. Since its inception, the company has developed 51 utility-scale solar projects totaling 1,500 megawatts (MW) across the United States. Headwater Energy’s senior management team brings decades of experience, having financed or developed solar projects in nearly every state nationwide. Today, the company is actively developing over 5 gigawatts (GW) of solar and energy storage projects.
QUOTES
“Headwater Energy is excited to invest in Marlboro County and contribute to its growing business community. Our commitment to this project reflects the forward-thinking leadership and pro-business environment cultivated by County officials. Over the life of our solar farm, we anticipate delivering approximately $12 million in tax revenue to the County — all without placing additional demand on local services such as roads, sewer, schools, or emergency services. We thank Marlboro County for its partnership and look forward to a strong, lasting relationship.”
- Headwater Energy Chief Strategy Officer, Jay Nemeth
“The announcement of Headwater Energy’s solar facility in Marlboro County is the result of nearly a year of close collaboration with the County’s Economic Development Department. We’re grateful to share the mutually beneficial agreement we’ve reached — one that reflects Headwater Energy’s commitment to investing in Marlboro County and the County’s commitment to long-term economic growth. This project is a testament to what can be achieved through thoughtful partnership and we would like to thank everyone who helped make it possible.”
- Headwater Energy’s Chief Development Officer, Peter Stein
“Abundant electrical infrastructure, available sites and a business-friendly environment were all key components in recruiting this company. We would like to welcome Headwater Energy to the Marlboro County Community and we look forward to a long and prosperous working relationship with them.”
- Marlboro County Council Chairman, Anthony Woods
“Today’s announcement is proof that Marlboro County is Creating Business Opportunities that Last a Life Time and we look forward to helping them grow in our community.”
- Marlboro County Economic Development-Executive Director, Tonny McNeil