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South Carolina Electricity Information

South Carolina’s electricity generation is led by nuclear power, which provides the majority of the state’s energy and helps keep emissions lower than in states reliant on fossil fuels. Natural gas has grown significantly, while coal use has declined, further reducing the state’s carbon footprint. Hydroelectric and solar power also contribute, with solar expanding rapidly in recent years. Electricity prices in South Carolina are close to the national average, though high summer demand for air conditioning can drive up costs for consumers.

With its strong nuclear and growing renewable energy sector, South Carolina is making progress toward a cleaner energy future. However, as natural gas remains a major player, the state continues to balance affordability, reliability, and sustainability in its power generation.

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Electricity Production

Primary Source

Nuclear

Total Generation: 100,853,387 MWh
Ranks 14th Highest in the U.S.
Average Price: 14.71¢ /kWh
Ranks 17th Cheapest in the U.S.
Average Electric Bill: $153.61
Ranks 43rd Cheapest in the U.S.

Electricity Production By Source

Emissions From Electricity Generation

Carbon Dioxide Emissions Rank

25th Highest

25,599 TMT

Sulfer Dioxide Emissions Rank

18th Highest

20,842 tn

Nitrogen Oxide Emissions Rank

30th Highest

16,735 tn

Renewable Electricity Generation

Renewable Production Rank

33rd Highest

4,961,718 MWh
4.92% of Total Production

Source U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) Based on data from 2023

Energy Usage in South Carolina

Energy Usage Per Capita Rank

32nd Lowest

Average Per Person: 307 million BTU

South Carolina’s electricity consumption is shaped by its hot, humid summers and mild winters, characteristic of the Southeastern climate. Air conditioning demand is a major driver of energy use, especially during peak summer months, making residential electricity consumption higher than the national average. While winter heating needs are lower than in colder regions, some homes rely on electric heat pumps, contributing to year-round demand. The state’s industrial sector, including manufacturing and agriculture, also adds to overall electricity use. With a growing population and expanding energy needs, South Carolina continues to focus on grid reliability and energy efficiency to manage consumption effectively.

Municipal Utilities in South Carolina

While most cities, towns, and villages throughout the state of South Carolina offer municipal essential services like providing clean water, sewage treatment and dealing with waste and storm water, some also offer other services like electricity, natural gas, sanitation or recycling. In South Carolina, 24 cities offer municipal electricity utility services to their residents.

Largest Electric Companies in South Carolina

The rest of South Carolina receives electric utility service from one of many primary providers. Here’s a list of some of the larger providers that might be available to your home:

South Carolina Natural Gas Information

South Carolina uses natural gas very differently from many states. Winters are generally mild and summers are hot and humid, so home heating plays a smaller role while gas-fired plants work hard to back up air-conditioning demand. About 25% of households heat primarily with natural gas, and per-capita gas use sits in the lowest quarter of states. The power sector is the big mover, taking about 55% of statewide gas in 2023, with industry near 28%, residential around 9%, and commercial about 7%. That mix reflects a state where nuclear covers most electricity but gas has become the flexible partner that handles peaks and quick ramps.

Average Natural Gas Price

$2.838 /CCF

Ranks 50th Cheapest in the U.S.

Average Natural Gas Bill

$150 /month

Ranks 49th Cheapest in the U.S.

Natural Gas Usage Per Capita

29th Lowest

Average Per Person: 71.99 MCFs Annually

Largest Natural Gas Companies in South Carolina

Many of the residents of South Carolina receive their natural gas utility service from one of the larger companies that service the state.

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South Carolina Internet Connectivity

Broadband Availability

90.48%

Ranks 32nd in the U.S.

Percent of Ppopulation with access to 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload

1 Gig Availability

38.96%

Ranks 27th in the U.S.

Percent of population with access to download speeds of 1 Gbps

Fiber Availability

40.76%

Ranks 24th in the U.S.

Percent of population with access to Fiber Internet

Largest Internet Providers in South Carolina

When it comes to high-speed internet, homes in South Carolina have plenty of options to stay connected! From bustling cities to quiet rural areas, a variety of providers offer reliable service across the state. Here are some of the biggest names keeping South Carolina homes online and in the loop:

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New Resident Utility Checklist

Moving to South Carolina? Setting up utilities here follows a standard process, but being prepared can save you time and money. Here is a quick guide to getting connected:

Timeline: Contact providers at least 5 business days before your move-in date. During peak moving seasons (summer and early fall), allow up to two weeks.
Required Documents: Most SC utilities will require:
- Government-issued photo ID.
- Social Security Number (for a credit check).
- A copy of your lease or closing deed to prove residency.
Deposits & Waivers: If you are a new customer, expect a security deposit (typically equal to 2 months of the estimated bill).

[tip]Pro Tip: You can often waive this fee by providing a Letter of Credit from your previous utility provider showing 12 months of on-time payments. Ask for this letter before you cancel your old service.[/tip]

Connection Fees: almost all providers charge a non-refundable "connection" or "account set-up" fee (usually $15–$35) that will appear on your first bill.

Understanding Your South Carolina Bill

Utility bills in the Palmetto State often contain specific line items that can be confusing to new residents.

Rider Charges: You will likely see charges listed as "Riders" (e.g., Rider Fuel, Storm Recovery). These are state-approved adjustments that allow utilities to recover costs for fuel fluctuations or damage from past hurricanes and ice storms.
Basic Facilities Charge: This is a fixed monthly fee (usually $10–$25) covering the cost of the meter and grid connection. You pay this amount even if you use zero electricity that month.
Summer vs. Winter Rates: South Carolina has high air-conditioning demand. Many utilities use seasonal pricing, where the cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) is slightly higher from June through September.
Learn more about reading your bill from the SC Office of Regulatory Staff.

Solar Energy & Tax Incentives

South Carolina is one of the most solar-friendly states in the Southeast, offering generous incentives to homeowners who generate their own power.

SC State Solar Tax Credit: In addition to the federal tax credit, South Carolina offers a 25% state income tax credit for eligible solar energy systems.
- The credit is capped at $3,500 per year, but you can carry over unused credits for up to 10 years.
- View SC Department of Revenue Tax Credit Details (Look for the "Solar Energy" credit).
Net Metering & Solar Choice: Most major utilities (like Duke and Dominion) have moved to "Solar Choice" or "Time-of-Use" metering. This means you are credited for the energy you send back to the grid, but the value may change depending on the time of day the energy is produced.
Property Tax Exemption: Solar panels generally do not increase your property tax assessment in South Carolina.

Consumer Rights & Protections

As a utility customer in South Carolina, you have specific rights protected by state regulations.

Medical Certificates: If you or a family member has a serious medical condition that requires electric-powered equipment, you can delay a service disconnection for non-payment. You must submit a Medical Certificate signed by a licensed physician.

Note: This delays shut-off (usually for 30 days) to give you time to pay, but it does not erase the debt.

Cold Weather Rules: Unlike some northern states, South Carolina does not have a law completely banning utility shut-offs during winter months. However, the Public Service Commission often tracks weather conditions and utilities may voluntarily pause disconnects during extreme freezes.
Scam Awareness: Scammers frequently target SC residents, threatening immediate shut-off unless payment is made via prepaid debit card or apps like Zelle. Real utilities will never demand payment this way. Report scams to the SC Department of Consumer Affairs.

Energy Efficiency Rebates

Before you buy a new appliance, check for rebates. South Carolina utilities offer millions of dollars in incentives to reduce load on the grid.

Smart Thermostats: Many providers, including Electric Cooperatives, offer rebates (often $50+) if you install a smart thermostat and enroll in a rush-hour rewards program.
HVAC & Water Heaters: Upgrading to a high-efficiency heat pump or heat pump water heater can qualify for rebates ranging from $250 to over $500.
Home Energy Checkups: Most utilities offer a free in-home energy audit to identify where you are losing air.
- Duke Energy Smart $aver Rebates
- Dominion EnergyWise Programs
- Santee Cooper Rebates

Emergency & Quick Reference

Keep these numbers handy for utility emergencies.

Service	Contact Info
Call Before You Dig	Dial 811 (Free service to mark underground lines)
Gas Leaks	Leave the area immediately, then call your provider or 911.
Power Outage Maps	• Dominion Energy Outage Map • Duke Energy Outage Map • Santee Cooper Outage Map
Consumer Complaints	SC Office of Regulatory Staff

Utility Costs in South Carolina

The average monthly total utility bills in South Carolina is $334.64, which is 20.74% higher than the national average.

Average Electric Bill

$154

Higher than national average

Average Natural Gas Bill

$150

Higher than national average

Average Water Bill

$31

Lower than national average

Assistance for Paying Utility Bills in South Carolina

If you are struggling to keep up with high energy costs in the Palmetto State, there are several financial assistance programs available. These range from federally funded grants to local non-profit initiatives and special programs offered directly by utility providers.

Government-Funded Assistance

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

LIHEAP is a federally funded program that helps low-income households pay their heating and cooling bills. It also provides emergency assistance if you are facing a utility shut-off. In South Carolina, this program is administered by the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity through local community action agencies.

How to Apply: You must apply through the community action agency that serves your specific county. Find your local Community Action Agency here

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

While LIHEAP helps with immediate bills, WAP helps reduce your energy consumption long-term. This program provides free home energy upgrades (like insulation and air sealing) to low-income families to lower their monthly utility costs.

Learn more about South Carolina Weatherization Assistance

SC 2-1-1

Supported by the United Way, SC 2-1-1 is a free, confidential referral service that connects residents with local community resources, including utility payment assistance, food pantries, and housing help.

Contact: Dial 2-1-1 from any phone or search their online database.

Utility Company Programs

Many major utility providers in South Carolina manage their own assistance funds, often supported by donations from customers and shareholders.

Dominion Energy EnergyShare: This program provides energy bill assistance to income-eligible residents, seniors, and people with disabilities.
- Apply for EnergyShare
Duke Energy “Share the Warmth”: Funded by Duke Energy customers and shareholders, this program helps residents pay for heating costs during the winter. They also offer a “Cooling Assistance” program for summer months in certain counties.
- Learn about Duke Energy Assistance Programs
Electric Cooperatives (Operation Round Up): Many electric co-ops in SC (such as Aiken, Fairfield, and Palmetto Electric) participate in “Operation Round Up,” where members round their bills up to the nearest dollar to fund local charities and individual assistance. Contact your specific cooperative to see if they offer emergency grants.

Special Programs for Seniors

Seniors (typically defined as age 60+) often receive priority status for the government programs listed above (LIHEAP and WAP). In addition, there are specific initiatives designed to help older adults cope with South Carolina’s heat.

Fan-Heat Relief Program: Administered in partnership with the N.C. Department of Human Resources and local agencies in the Duke Energy service area, this program provides free fans to seniors during the summer months to help prevent heat-related illnesses.
Project Good Neighbor: Administered by the Orangeburg Department of Public Utilities, this program assists seniors and other vulnerable residents with emergency utility payments.

Special Programs for Veterans

Veterans in South Carolina who are at risk of homelessness due to unpaid bills can access funds through the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program.

Alston Wilkes Society: This organization provides SSVF services across South Carolina, offering temporary financial assistance for rent and utility fees to help veterans maintain stable housing.
- Contact the Alston Wilkes Society Veteran Services
Veterans Inc.: Provides similar support services, including help with back rent and utilities for eligible veterans and their families.
- Get help from Veterans Inc.

Assistance for Students

While students are often excluded from general assistance if they are claimed as dependents, there are specific resources to help with connectivity.

Discounted Internet Services: Several providers offer reduced-cost internet for students and low-income households.
- Mediacom Connect2Compete: Offers low-cost internet to households with K-12 students who qualify for free or reduced lunch. Check availability.
- Spectrum Internet Assist: Provides affordable high-speed internet plans for eligible low-income households. Learn more.

Find Out More in the Student Utility Guide