Wedoany.com Report-Jun 12, Duke Energy Corp. has announced plans to seek approval from the Public Service Commission of South Carolina to construct a 1.4-gigawatt natural gas-fired power plant in Anderson County. The proposed facility aims to address the increasing energy demands in the region.

It hopes to start construction 2027 and put the facility into operation by 2031.

Construction is slated to begin in 2027, with the plant expected to be operational by 2031. The facility will be located on approximately 200 acres along Highway 81 South near True Temper Road. Duke Energy noted: “The site is advantageous and would use existing transmission infrastructure nearby to provide about 1,400 megawatts of electricity to support the homes and businesses of a rapidly growing region and state.”

The company emphasized its commitment to serving nearly 860,000 retail electric customers across 30 South Carolina counties. In an online statement, Duke Energy said: “As part of the company’s responsibility to serve customers, Duke Energy needs to build and enable large amounts of new generation quickly to keep up with the success the state is seeing in economic development and population growth.”

The plant’s design prioritizes efficiency, with Duke Energy stating: “The innovative design of the facility would also significantly reduce the need for large amounts of water, creating less burden on the county’s infrastructure.” This approach aims to support sustainable development in the area.

Duke Energy highlighted a partnership with GE Vernova, which will supply up to 11 gas turbines and related equipment from its Greenville, South Carolina, factory. This collaboration supports the region’s growing energy needs, driven by advanced manufacturing, data centers, and population growth.

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster expressed support, stating: “South Carolina’s continued prosperity depends on reliable, forward-looking energy projects like this one.” Duke Energy South Carolina president Tim Pearson added: “We are at a critical point in planning for South Carolina’s reliable, affordable and resilient energy future.”

The project is expected to create approximately 600 jobs during peak construction and up to 30 permanent positions once the plant is operational. Duke Energy’s resource plan, approved by the state regulator, also includes exploring hydrogen-capable natural gas resources and renewable energy options like solar and battery storage.

Duke Energy stated: “As we pursue near-term actions, we’re evaluating sites across South Carolina to find reliable and cost-effective options for implementing this strategy, benefiting our customers and communities.”