South Carolina, September 28, 2025
News Summary
Duke Energy’s proposed rate increases in South Carolina, affecting residential, commercial, and industrial customers, have sparked concerns among residents and local businesses. With hikes up to 15.1% for residential and small businesses, the proposal has been met with criticism regarding its support for large data centers. Public hearings are scheduled to discuss these increases, alongside community opposition to a new data center in Matthews, raising fears over health, infrastructure, and local identity.
South Carolina
Duke Energy has proposed significant rate increases that will affect all customer classes in South Carolina, including residential and commercial sectors. Residential customers and small businesses could experience an increase of 15.1%, while medium service businesses, such as Walmart, might face a 12.8% uptick. Large industries, including AI data centers, would see a modest increase of 3.6%, and outdoor lighting services would also be subject to a 15.1% increase.
The rate hikes are cited by Duke Energy as a necessary step to strengthen the electrical grid, enhance storm readiness, and accommodate a growing customer base. However, concerns have emerged from various quarters, principally about the implications of these increases on residential and small business customers. An AARP lead volunteer has raised alarms, suggesting that the increases primarily serve to support the financial needs of large industries, especially AI-related data centers, which are believed to account for approximately 65% of the new capacity requirements.
The South Carolina Public Service Commission is set to hold a series of public hearings on the proposed increase, providing an opportunity for public feedback. Scheduled dates include September 25 in Florence, September 29 in Sumter, and October 2 in Bishopville, culminating with two sessions on October 27 in Columbia, both in-person and virtual.
Community Concerns in Matthews
In the neighboring town of Matthews, residents are actively opposing a rezoning request for a proposed data center known as Project Accelerate NC. This project is set to occupy 123 acres along East John Street. Concerns revolve around the potential negative impacts on community health and infrastructure, as well as the effects on the town’s identity.
A petition against the data center has collected over 550 signatures, with local residents voicing worries about the project’s implications for local electric and water systems, alongside expectations of deteriorated air quality. Many fear that the data center could disrupt the community’s character and charm. The Matthews town commission is planning another public hearing on October 13 regarding the rezoning request, as developers also host a community meeting at town hall on October 2.
Anticipated Demand Increase
Duke Energy projects a 30% increase in demand on its grid from 2024 to 2038, largely driven by the expanding needs of data centers. This rising demand places additional pressure on existing resources, as data centers can require as much electricity as medium-sized towns. In light of this trend, communities, including those in Statesville and Mooresville, have initiated protests against proposed data centers, raising broader environmental concerns regarding their heavy power and water resource consumption.
Conclusion
The proposed rate increase and the controversial data center project reflect a complex balance between sustaining growth in a high-demand sector and addressing the challenges posed to local communities. As discussions unfold in South Carolina, stakeholders are closely monitoring how these developments will influence both energy accessibility and community welfare.
FAQ
What are the proposed rate increases from Duke Energy?
The proposed increases are 15.1% for residential and small business customers, 12.8% for medium service businesses, and 3.6% for large industries, including AI data centers.
Why is Duke Energy proposing these rate increases?
Duke Energy states that the rate increases are essential for strengthening the electrical grid, improving storm readiness, and meeting the demands of a growing customer base.
When are the public hearings scheduled?
The public hearings are scheduled for September 25 in Florence, September 29 in Sumter, October 2 in Bishopville, and October 27 in Columbia.
What are the community concerns regarding the data center in Matthews?
Residents are concerned about the impact on community health, infrastructure, and the identity of Matthews, among other issues raised in a petition against the data center.
Key Features of Proposed Rate Increases
| Customer Class | Proposed Rate Increase |
|---|---|
| Residential & Small Business | 15.1% |
| Medium Service Business (e.g., Walmart) | 12.8% |
| Large Industry (AI Data Centers) | 3.6% |
| Outdoor Lighting Services | 15.1% |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Duke Energy Appoints New President for South Carolina Operations
Additional Resources
- Charlotte Observer: Duke Energy Proposes Rate Increases
- Wikipedia: Electricity Rate
- WCNC: AI Data Centers and Power Supply
- Google Search: AI data centers power consumption
- ABC News: Amazon Expands AI Footprint
- Google Scholar: AI Data Centers
- About Amazon: AWS Investment in North Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Data Centers
- Charlotte Observer: Community Concerns on Data Centers
- Google News: Duke Energy Rate Increase
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
