Gov. McMaster Signs Energy Bill to Meet South Carolina’s Growing Demand
COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Under the sweltering South Carolina sun, Republican Governor Henry McMaster celebrated the signing of a crucial energy law aimed at meeting the state’s growing electricity demands. This law, signed over a month ago, emphasizes the collaboration between private utilities and state-owned companies to enhance energy production, particularly a 2,000-megawatt natural gas plant on a former coal site in Colleton County, contingent on regulatory approval.
At the ceremony, McMaster highlighted the necessity of robust energy solutions for the 1.5 million new residents added this century, noting, “It is hot and promising to get hotter.” The legislation streamlines regulatory processes, allowing utilities to challenge decisions directly in the state Supreme Court, potentially expediting energy projects and preventing lengthy legal delays. Additionally, utilities can now implement smaller, annual rate increases to offset rising costs more gradually.
While the celebration marked significant progress, some lawmakers expressed concerns over consumer protections and the absence of limits on data center energy consumption. Nonetheless, Dominion Energy’s President Keller Kissam emphasized the importance of reliable energy, stating that customers expect consistent electricity access, especially in extreme heat.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
