Governor Henry McMaster has enacted the South Carolina Energy Security Act, known as H. 3309, during a ceremonial signing event in Columbia. The legislation aims to enhance the state’s energy infrastructure to support its growing economy and population.
Governor McMaster emphasized the need for reliable and affordable energy in light of South Carolina’s increasing attractiveness to residents and businesses. “With more people and businesses choosing to call South Carolina home than ever before, the demand for reliable, affordable energy has never been greater,” he stated. “This legislation is a major step forward in securing our energy future by ensuring that we can generate, deliver, and manage the energy we need to fuel our continued prosperity.”
The new law mandates state agencies to expedite regulatory reviews for energy projects within six months of receiving applications. This requirement will remain effective until 2035.
In line with Governor McMaster’s 2025 State of the State Address, the legislation promotes nuclear energy development by expanding the Nuclear Advisory Council’s responsibilities to include strategic planning for nuclear generation across the state. It also supports advanced nuclear technologies and authorizes a pilot program for small modular nuclear reactors pending council endorsement.
Additionally, Santee Cooper and Dominion Energy are authorized to convert the decommissioned Canadys Station from coal-fired operations into a natural gas facility.
Senator Tom Davis expressed gratitude towards Governor McMaster’s leadership on this initiative. “I want to thank Governor Henry McMaster for his leadership on this issue,” Davis said. “This legislation provides something for every stakeholder in energy — large energy users, the environmental community, and utilities.”
The law instructs the Office of Regulatory Staff to create a comprehensive assessment and action plan for maintaining affordable and reliable electric power and natural gas availability. The Public Service Commission is also tasked with considering updates to renewable energy programs tailored to South Carolina business needs.
Moreover, utilities now have increased flexibility in offering competitive rates to companies making significant investments in South Carolina. These negotiated rates target employers meeting specific job creation and capital investment criteria aimed at attracting major business projects beneficial to the state’s economy.
Since taking office in 2017, Governor McMaster has overseen 880 economic development projects totaling over $49.8 billion in new investments along with more than 96,000 new jobs created statewide. According to U.S. Census Bureau data, South Carolina ranks as the fifth fastest-growing state nationally.
