Duke Energy Proposes New Natural Gas Power Plant in South Carolina

News Summary

Duke Energy has announced plans to construct a 1,400-megawatt natural gas combined cycle power plant in Anderson County, South Carolina. The project aims to meet the region’s increasing energy demands while incorporating hydrogen capabilities. Set to begin construction in 2027 and operational by 2031, the facility will utilize existing infrastructure and engage with the local community throughout its planning stages. Amid growing energy needs driven by industrial growth and data centers, this marks the first new generation proposal in South Carolina in a decade.

South Carolina – Duke Energy has taken a significant step in addressing the growing energy demands in the region by proposing the construction of a new 1,400-megawatt natural gas combined cycle power plant in Anderson County. The energy company plans to submit an application to the South Carolina Public Service Commission (PSCSC) for the necessary approvals to initiate this project, which aims to incorporate hydrogen capability into its operational framework.

Located on nearly 200 acres along Highway 81 South, close to True Temper Road, the facility is set to begin construction in the summer of 2027, pending regulatory approval, with an anticipated operational launch in early 2031. This marks the first new power generation proposal by a power company in South Carolina in the past decade, highlighting the urgency to enhance energy infrastructure.

Duke Energy currently serves approximately 860,000 retail electric customers across 30 counties in South Carolina. The proposed plant is crucial as it seeks to meet the rising energy demands associated with the region’s population growth and ongoing economic development.

Project Significance

According to Duke Energy South Carolina president, the construction of this modern energy facility is vital for ensuring a reliable energy future in the region. The project is aligned with the South Carolina Energy Security Act, a legislative initiative designed to enhance the energy grid and support the growth of renewable energy, all while protecting consumer interests.

Governor Henry McMaster has expressed support for the initiative, recognizing Duke Energy’s efforts to address the state’s energy requirements through reliable and progressive energy solutions. The proposed facility will utilize existing transmission infrastructure, which could help reduce environmental impacts, including minimizing the need for large volumes of water typically required for power generation.

Community Engagement and Economic Factors

As part of its planning process, Duke Energy has committed to engaging with the local community, planning outreach efforts to inform residents and property owners about the project. The company will also be seeking community feedback to ensure local input is incorporated into the development process.

The gas turbines required for the project will be manufactured at the GE Vernova’s Greenville facility, following a partnership announcement made in April 2025. This collaboration is expected to promote local economic activity while meeting the project’s technological requirements.

Duke Energy’s proposal comes in response to the increasing energy needs driven by regional industrial growth and the expansion of data centers. These economic activities heavily influence the demand for enhanced energy capacity, and the new power plant is seen as a strategic move to support this trend.

Regulatory and Public Concerns

As the project is still in the early planning stages, extensive studies and community engagement processes are anticipated before proceeding further. However, some public critics have voiced concerns regarding the nature of the rising energy demands. They argue that the surge is largely attributed to significant industries and data centers rather than population growth alone. These critics have called for greater transparency regarding the project’s costs and potential impacts on utility rates.

With the growing complexities surrounding energy generation and consumption, the outcome of Duke Energy’s proposal is expected to be closely monitored by both the community and regulatory bodies. The forthcoming application to the PSCSC represents a critical moment for the future of energy in South Carolina.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Power Magazine: Duke Energy Advances New 1.4 GW Gas Hydrogen Power Plant
• Wikipedia: Energy in South Carolina
• Post and Courier: Duke Energy Power Plant Anderson County
• Google Search: Duke Energy Anderson County Power Plant
• Independent Mail: Anderson County Duke Energy Natural Gas Plant
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Power Plant
• Rigzone: Duke Energy Plans to Build 1.4 GW Gas Power Plant
• Google News: Duke Energy South Carolina