Microgrid and future SMR nuclear developers are expecting to satisfy a large share of future data center and digital infrastructure demand growth.
The electric utilities, however, are saying ‘we’re right here and ready right now.’ Multi-state utility Duke Energy plans to submit an application to build a new natural gas-fired plant later this decade in growing South Carolina.
The utility seeks approval from the Public Service Commission of South Carolina to construct the facility in Anderson County to keep up with economic and population growth in the state, as well as data center demand regionally. Power capacity for the new combined cycle plant is reported at close to 1.4 GW and could involve hydrogen in future fuel mix.
Duke Energy services close to 860,000 retail electric customers across 30 counties in South Carolina. The move has garnered support from many of the state’s leaders.
"South Carolina's continued economic success depends on reliable, affordable energy infrastructure that can keep pace with our rapid growth,” Speaker of the House Murrell Smith said in a statement. “Duke Energy's investment in a new natural gas facility in Anderson County is a direct response to that need, and it reflects the type of forward-thinking solutions encouraged by the S.C. Energy Security Act. I applaud this step toward strengthening our grid and supporting the families, businesses and industries driving our state forward."
South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster also has endorsed the new Duke Energy gas-fired plant construction. South Carolina is one of numerous states now creating legislative directives on energy resiliency and supply.
The deal is bolstered by a Duke Energy partnership with GE Vernova, providing gas turbines and other equipment manufactured in nearby Greenville.
If approved, construction is expected to initiate in summer 2027 and will serve customers by early 2031. The company's plans intend to construct the facility on nearly 200 acres on Highway 81 South near True Temper Road in Anderson County.
"We are at a critical point in planning for South Carolina's reliable, affordable and resilient energy future,” said Tim Pearson, Duke Energy South Carolina president. “By enacting the S.C. Energy Security Act, Gov. McMaster and the Legislature have provided a comprehensive path forward for energy policy that will guide our state's continued success for many years to come.”
South Carolina is home to more than two dozen data centers and is growing, according to various reports. US News and World Report has ranked South Carolina sixth among the fastest-growing states in terms of gross domestic product expansion.
Forbes ranked South Carolina in the top 15 last year in the same type of category.