Regulators approve Duke Energy’s gas plant in South Carolina, boosting capacity, jobs, and economic growth while supporting long-term energy reliability goals.
The Public Service Commission of South Carolina has granted approval to Duke Energy for the development of a new natural gas-fired power generation facility in Anderson County, marking a significant step toward strengthening the state’s energy infrastructure. The project is designed to address South Carolina’s rapidly rising electricity demand, driven by population growth and expanding business activity across the region.
The decision follows an extensive and transparent review process, including a public hearing held in Anderson County. Duke Energy also hosted two community open house events, allowing residents to learn more about the proposed facility, engage with company representatives, and provide feedback. This approach underscored the importance of public participation in shaping large-scale infrastructure projects that directly impact local communities.
South Carolina continues to rank among the fastest-growing states in the United States, creating increased pressure on existing energy systems. In response, policymakers introduced the Energy Security Act in 2025, establishing a long-term framework for ensuring reliable and diversified energy supplies. The planned natural gas facility represents a key component of this strategy, supporting both economic development and long-term energy stability.
Economic projections highlight the project’s substantial benefits. A study conducted by Ernst & Young estimates that construction will generate over 2,200 jobs annually during the multi-year build phase, including approximately 746 jobs within Anderson County itself. Once operational, the facility is expected to contribute around $84 million annually to the state economy, while supporting 125 permanent jobs and generating roughly $10 million in yearly labor income.
Technologically, the plant will incorporate advanced combined-cycle natural gas systems, making it one of the most efficient facilities in Duke Energy’s portfolio. It will also feature cutting-edge environmental control technologies aimed at significantly reducing emissions. Compared to traditional plants, the facility will consume 90% less water, eliminate visible vapor plumes, and avoid the need for chemical water treatment. Additionally, it is expected to have a longer operational lifespan than earlier generations of natural gas plants.
The total nominal capacity of the plant will be approximately 1,365 megawatts (MW). Ownership of a portion of this capacity will be shared with regional partners, including Central Electric Power Cooperative, which will hold 95 MW, and North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation, which will own 100 MW.
Construction is scheduled to begin in the summer of 2027, with the facility expected to be fully operational by early 2031, delivering reliable electricity to meet future demand.
State leaders have strongly endorsed the project. Governor Henry McMaster emphasized the urgency of expanding dependable energy capacity amid record population and business growth. Legislative leaders, including Murrell Smith and Thomas Alexander, highlighted the importance of affordable and reliable energy in maintaining the state’s economic competitiveness. Local representatives Mike Gambrell and Craig Gagnon noted the long-term community benefits, including job creation, increased tax revenues, and improved quality of life.
Duke Energy South Carolina President Tim Pearson described the project as a timely and strategic investment, reinforcing a balanced energy mix that includes nuclear power, renewable energy, battery storage, and energy efficiency initiatives.
