Greenville, South Carolina, October 13, 2025
News Summary
Duke Energy Carolinas seeks a 7.6% rate increase for residential customers, resulting in an average monthly increase of approximately $10.38. This request, pending approval from the South Carolina Public Service Commission, aims to enhance the power grid and storm preparedness. Public hearings are scheduled for residents to voice their opinions on the increase. Additionally, Duke Energy is planning a new natural gas power plant in Anderson County to meet growing electricity demands due to economic development.
Greenville, South Carolina: Public Hearings Scheduled for Duke Energy’s Proposed Rate Increase
Duke Energy Carolinas is requesting a 7.6% rate increase for residential customers, which translates to an average monthly increase of approximately $10.38. This request is pending approval from the South Carolina Public Service Commission (PSCSC). The proposed rate adjustment comes as part of efforts to enhance the power grid, improve storm preparedness, and upgrade the fleet.
Residents are invited to voice their opinions on the proposed rate increase at public hearings scheduled at various locations:
- October 13 at Anderson County Council Chambers at 6 p.m.
- October 14 at Prisma Health Center for Health and Life Sciences multipurpose room, Greenville Technical College, at 6 p.m.
- October 16 at Greenwood 50 Performing Arts Center at 6 p.m.
- November 13, in-person or virtually, at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. in the Public Service Commission Hearing Room in Columbia.
Duke Energy provides service to approximately 680,000 customers in South Carolina. The company highlights its commitment to transparency regarding the reasons behind the proposed rate increase and its ongoing investments into infrastructure improvements.
In addition to the rate increase request, Duke Energy also announced plans to submit a construction application for a new natural gas power plant in Anderson County. This facility is deemed necessary to meet growing electricity generation demands due to economic development and population growth in the area.
The construction application for the new plant is expected to be submitted later this year, with construction anticipated to commence in summer 2027. Once operational, the facility is projected to generate 1,400 megawatts of electricity by early 2031. The power plant will be strategically located on nearly 200 acres near Highway 81 South and True Temper Road, enhancing the reliability and responsiveness of the local power grid.
To optimize operations, Duke Energy has forged a partnership with GE Vernova to supply natural gas turbines for the new facility, which will be produced in nearby Greenville, South Carolina. Furthermore, the design of the facility aims to minimize water usage, helping to alleviate pressure on the local infrastructure.
Officials from the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs emphasize their role in protecting consumers and ensuring businesses adhere to regulations. Advocacy groups, such as Conservation Voters of South Carolina, are encouraging residents to actively participate in the upcoming hearings, underscoring the importance of public input in the decision-making process regarding utility rates and infrastructure development.
FAQ Section
What is the proposed rate increase by Duke Energy Carolinas?
Duke Energy Carolinas is proposing a rate increase of 7.6% for residential customers.
How much will the average customer’s bill increase?
The average increase would be about $10.38 per month.
Where are the public hearings taking place?
The public hearings will take place at:
- Oct. 13 at Anderson County Council Chambers at 6 p.m.
- Oct. 14 at Prisma Health Center for Health and Life Sciences multipurpose room, Greenville Technical College at 6 p.m.
- Oct. 16 at Greenwood 50 Performing Arts Center at 6 p.m.
- Nov. 13 at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. either in-person or virtually in the Public Service Commission Hearing Room in Columbia.
Why is Duke Energy seeking a rate increase?
The proposed rate increase is linked to investments in power grid enhancements, storm preparedness, and fleet improvements.
What are the company’s long-term plans?
Duke Energy announced plans to submit a construction application for a new natural gas power plant in Anderson County to the PSCSC, which is essential for meeting electricity generation needs due to economic development and population growth.
When is construction of the new power plant expected to start?
Construction of the new plant is anticipated to begin in summer 2027.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Proposed Rate Increase | 7.6% for residential customers |
| Average Monthly Increase | About $10.38 |
| Public Hearings | Multiple locations between Oct. 13 – Nov. 13 |
| Duke Energy Customers in SC | Approximately 680,000 |
| New Power Plant Capacity | 1,400 megawatts |
| Construction Start Date | Summer 2027 |
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Additional Resources
- Greenville Online: Duke Energy Carolinas Rate Increase
- Greenville Business Magazine: Duke Energy Natural Gas Plant Application
- Duke Energy News Release: Proposed Natural Gas Plant
- WYFF4: Duke Energy New Natural Gas Plant in Anderson County
- Fox Carolina: Power Outages in Western Carolinas
- Wikipedia: Duke Energy
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Duke Energy
- Google Search: Duke Energy Rate Increase
- Google Scholar: Duke Energy Natural Gas Plant
- Google News: Duke Energy Greenville
Author: HERE Greenwood
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