News Summary
Duke Energy is moving forward with plans to build a new natural gas power plant in Anderson County, aiming for a generating capacity of approximately 1,400 megawatts. This project, which would be the first new generation capacity request from the company in a decade, is set to utilize existing infrastructure and is expected to begin construction in 2027. The facility is projected to be operational by 2031, supporting the energy needs of over 835,000 retail customers in South Carolina.
South Carolina – Duke Energy is moving forward with plans to submit an application to the Public Service Commission of South Carolina (PSCSC) to build a new natural gas power plant in Anderson County. This proposed combined-cycle power plant is anticipated to have a generating capacity of approximately 1,400 megawatts (MW). If approved, this would represent the first new generation capacity request from Duke Energy in South Carolina in a decade.
The project is designed to utilize existing transmission infrastructure in the Anderson County area, making it a strategically beneficial initiative for local energy services. GE Vernova has been selected to supply the gas turbines and related equipment for the facility, with production set to take place in Greenville, South Carolina. Duke Energy aims to submit the formal construction application later in 2025, with construction projected to commence in the summer of 2027. The facility is expected to be operational by early 2031.
Duke Energy currently serves approximately 835,500 electric retail customers and 164,000 natural gas customers across South Carolina. The company remains committed to enhancing the resilience of its energy systems, especially after facing significant challenges during recent weather events, such as Hurricane Helene, which impacted the power delivery infrastructure.
Leadership and Community Engagement
Tim Pearson, president of Duke Energy’s utility operations in South Carolina, oversees the company’s regulatory and community relations. With more than a decade of experience in government and energy policy, he focuses on advancing Duke Energy’s strategic initiatives and supporting local economies through community engagement.
The company has been actively involved in community philanthropy and crisis response, donating over $2 million to combat hunger since 2021. Their legislative support includes initiatives such as House Bill 3309, which aims to secure the state’s energy future in response to economic growth and the need for new energy sources.
Focus on Resilience and Innovation
Duke Energy is also investing in innovative technologies, including smart, self-healing systems which have played a crucial role in reducing outages and restoring service more quickly after major storms. The company is committed to a broad energy strategy that includes investment in hydrogen-capable natural gas, renewable energy—such as solar power—energy storage, and advanced nuclear options.
In addition to infrastructure investments, Duke Energy is promoting sustainability through energy efficiency programs. These initiatives include demand-response programs that incentivize both commercial and residential customers to reduce their energy consumption during peak periods, supporting the company’s overarching goal of balancing supply and demand while promoting environmental stewardship.
Future Outlook
The proposed natural gas power plant in Anderson County represents a significant step in Duke Energy’s long-term strategy to modernize its energy supply and infrastructure. As the company seeks PSCSC approval for the project, it aims to ensure a reliable and resilient energy supply that meets the growing demands of South Carolina’s residents and businesses. With projections indicating an operational status by early 2031, Duke Energy is positioning itself as a leader in energy innovation and community-focused service in the state.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Duke Energy News Release
- Wikipedia: Natural Gas Power Plant
- Manning Live
- Google Search: Duke Energy
- Fox Carolina
- Google Scholar: Duke Energy Power Plant
- Daily Energy Insider
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Energy
- Power Engineering
- Google News: Duke Energy South Carolina
