The Public Service Commission of South Carolina approved on Mar. 26 Duke Energy’s plan to build a new natural gas power plant in Anderson County, marking the company’s first new generation facility in the state in a decade.
The approval is significant as it comes after the passage of the Energy Security Act in 2025, which was designed to provide a comprehensive framework for energy policy and address South Carolina’s growing energy needs. The state’s population growth and business expansion have increased demand for reliable electricity, prompting investment in modern infrastructure.
According to Duke Energy, construction on the combined cycle plant is expected to begin in summer 2027, with operations projected to start by early 2031. The facility will feature advanced environmental controls and use technology that reduces water consumption by 90% compared to traditional methods. It will also avoid creating vapor plumes and eliminate chemical water treatment needs.
A survey by Ernst & Young estimates that over 2,200 jobs will be supported annually during construction, including nearly 750 positions within Anderson County itself. Once operational, the plant is expected to generate an $84 million annual economic impact statewide and support more than $10 million per year in labor income.
Governor Henry McMaster said: “As South Carolina continues to attract new businesses and new residents at a record pace, the need for dependable energy has never been more urgent. Duke Energy has long been a strong partner in our state, and this project reflects the kind of forward-thinking planning that will ensure we meet those needs with reliable, efficient power for years to come.”
Speaker of the House Murrell Smith added: “Today’s approval of Duke Energy’s new facility in Anderson County shows South Carolina is growing the right way. As one of the fastest-growing states, we need reliable, affordable American energy to support jobs, attract business, and help families thrive. This project will create thousands of construction jobs, generate millions in local tax revenue, and reflects the impact of the Energy Security Act in securing our future.”
Senate President Thomas Alexander said: “Being competitive means South Carolina must have reliable, affordable energy ready when we need it. The Public Service Commission’s approval of Duke Energy’s combined-cycle gas plant is a major step forward, ensuring our state has the capacity to meet our needs, attract jobs, and stay competitive.”
Duke Energy South Carolina President Tim Pearson said: “We appreciate the commission’s recognition that the Anderson County combined cycle natural gas power plant is the right resource at the right time at the right site. Adding proven new natural gas technology to the electric grid acknowledges and responds to efforts…to address tremendous electricity generation needs as part of a reliable and diverse energy mix that includes new and existing nuclear technology…”
Central Electric Power Cooperative and North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation are set to own portions—95 megawatts (MW) and 100 MW respectively—of approximately 1,365 MW total capacity from this facility.
