The Public Service Commission of South Carolina has approved Duke Energy’s proposal to build a new natural gas generation facility in Anderson County, according to a March 26 announcement by the company. Construction on the state-of-the-art combined cycle plant is expected to begin in summer 2027, with operations projected to start serving customers by early 2031.
This project is significant as it addresses the growing energy needs of one of the fastest-growing states in the country. State leaders passed the Energy Security Act in 2025 to guide future energy policy and support continued economic growth, and this facility is described as a critical part of that plan.
The approval followed a public process including hearings and community open house events where details were shared and feedback collected. The plant will be Duke Energy’s first new generation facility in South Carolina in ten years. It aims to use advanced environmental controls, reducing water usage by 90% compared to traditional wet cooling technology, eliminating vapor plumes, and extending operational lifespan beyond prior technologies.
According to a survey by Ernst & Young cited by Duke Energy, construction will support more than 2,200 jobs annually during its multi-year build-out—including nearly 750 jobs located directly within Anderson County—and generate an annual $84 million statewide impact once operational. The facility will also contribute millions of dollars each year in property tax revenue.
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 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 concluded: “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; renewables; battery storage; additional natural gas; and energy efficiency programs.”
