The Public Service Commission of South Carolina approved on Mar. 26 Duke Energy’s plans 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.
This project comes as South Carolina experiences rapid population and business growth, creating increased demand for reliable energy sources. The approval follows the passage of the Energy Security Act in 2025, which was designed to provide guidance for future energy policy across the state.
The planned combined cycle plant will have an approximate capacity of 1,365 megawatts and is expected to begin construction in summer 2027. Once operational by early 2031, it will feature advanced environmental controls that use significantly less water than traditional technologies and are designed to minimize emissions.
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 said, “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 added: “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.”
According to company estimates based on an Ernst & Young survey cited in their release, construction is expected to support over 2,200 jobs annually during its multi-year timeline—746 located directly within Anderson County—and bring an annual $84 million economic impact statewide once operational.
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 by state leaders… 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 will own portions (95 MW and 100 MW respectively) of this facility’s total capacity.
Local officials including Sen. Mike Gambrell and Rep. Craig Gagnon highlighted ongoing collaboration with Duke Energy: “Duke Energy has been a valued partner… This significant investment will deliver lasting benefits for our schools… economy… quality of life.”
The development aligns with broader trends toward modernizing infrastructure while supporting local economies through job creation.
