South Carolina Appoints New Duke Energy State President

News Summary

Duke Energy has appointed Tim Pearson as the new state president for South Carolina. Effective November 1, Pearson will oversee regulatory and community relations efforts, succeeding Mike Callahan. With a strong background in government and policy, Pearson aims to guide the utility company in advancing legislative initiatives and promoting a clean energy transition across the region. He will lead a team focused on regulatory compliance and community engagement while continuing the company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.

South Carolina Appoints New Duke Energy State President

Duke Energy has announced the appointment of Tim Pearson as the new South Carolina state president, effective November 1. He will succeed Mike Callahan, who has been promoted to senior vice president and treasurer following the retirement of Karl Newlin.

In his new role at the age of 42, Pearson will oversee state and local regulatory and government relations within South Carolina, also known as the Palmetto State. He will work closely with the corporate and regulatory strategy team to advance legislative, rate, and regulatory initiatives that impact the utility company and its operations in the state.

As state president, Pearson will also be responsible for community relations and infrastructure engagement across South Carolina. His extensive experience in government and policy will enhance Duke Energy’s efforts to navigate and address the challenges faced by the utility industry in the region.

Profile of Tim Pearson

Pearson has been with Duke Energy since 2023, having joined the company as the vice president of government affairs after a decade of extensive work in government and policy. Prior to that, he served as an advisor and consultant, offering his expertise to various state governors.

His background includes serving as the chief of staff for former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley and holding the position of senior communications advisor to former Governor Mark Sanford. These roles have provided him with insights into the intricacies of state government, making him well-equipped to lead in his new capacity.

Transition in Leadership

Mike Callahan, the outgoing state president, has held the position for five years and is recognized for his contributions to community support, particularly during the pandemic and in emergency storm restoration efforts. His transition to a financial role within the company indicates a shift back to a focus on treasury operations, where he will continue to play a significant role in shaping the financial landscape of Duke Energy.

In Pearson’s previous position as vice president of government affairs, he will be succeeded by Tigerron “Tiger” Wells, who is currently the state government affairs director. Wells brings a wealth of experience, including a legal background and over a decade of involvement in lobbying efforts for Duke Energy at the South Carolina State House.

Supporting Team

Pearson’s leadership team will also include Heather Shirley Smith, vice president of regulatory and policy, and Rick Jiran, vice president of government and community relations. Together, they will work towards advancing the company’s goals in regulatory compliance and fostering relations with local communities.

Duke Energy’s Commitment

Duke Energy serves approximately 8.4 million customers across the southeastern United States, including states like North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky. The company is committed to a clean energy transition and has set ambitious targets to reduce its environmental impact, aiming for net-zero methane emissions from gas operations by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions from electricity generation by 2050.

To achieve these goals, Duke Energy is actively investing in electric grid upgrades, renewable energy projects, and the development of cleaner energy generation methods. This strategic approach reflects the company’s dedication to sustainability and innovation in the energy sector.

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