Understanding Energy in South Carolina
South Carolina's hot, humid summers drive high electricity consumption for air conditioning. Dominion Energy SC (formerly SCE&G) operates the Summer Nuclear Station, one of the largest nuclear plants in the Southeast. Duke Energy serves the Upstate and western portions of the state.
South Carolina has a regulated electricity market. Your utility is the only electricity provider in your area, but rates are reviewed and approved by the state's public utility commission to ensure they are fair and reasonable.
The state's primary electric utilities include Duke Energy South Carolina, Dominion Energy South Carolina (formerly SCE&G), Santee Cooper, Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative. Natural gas distribution is handled by Dominion Energy SC (SCE&G Gas), Piedmont Natural Gas (Duke Energy), Fort Hill Natural Gas Authority. South Carolina's climate — humid subtropical, mild winters — is one of the main drivers of annual energy consumption patterns for households.
Electric Utilities in South Carolina
The following utilities operate in South Carolina. Your specific provider depends on your address.
- Duke Energy South Carolina
- Dominion Energy South Carolina (formerly SCE&G)
- Santee Cooper
- Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative
Natural Gas Utilities in South Carolina
- Dominion Energy SC (SCE&G Gas)
- Piedmont Natural Gas (Duke Energy)
- Fort Hill Natural Gas Authority
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Energy Assistance Programs in South Carolina
Low-income households and those facing energy emergencies may qualify for these programs:
- SC LIHEAP
- SC Crisis Intervention Program (CIP)
- Dominion Energy SC Share the Warmth
- SC Weatherization Assistance
Energy Saving Tips for South Carolina Residents
These tips are tailored to South Carolina's climate — humid subtropical, mild winters:
- Run your AC on a "dry" mode or use a standalone dehumidifier — moisture makes heat feel worse.
- Clean or replace AC filters monthly during summer to maintain airflow and efficiency.
- Consider a mini-split heat pump — it's highly efficient for both cooling and mild-winter heating.
- Install Energy Star certified windows to reduce solar heat gain.
- Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to remove humidity at the source.
- Check for the CARE or low-income utility assistance program in your state.
- Schedule an energy audit — many Florida and Georgia utilities offer them free.
Gas & Electricity Rates by City in South Carolina
Select a city to view local utility rates, providers, and energy programs.
All Cities & Towns in South Carolina
Gas and electricity information for all 271 cities and towns in South Carolina. Jump to a letter or browse the full list.
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- Salem
- Salley
- Saluda
- Santee
- Scotia
- Scranton
- Seabrook Island
- Sellers
- Seneca
- Sharon
- Silverstreet
- Simpsonville
- Six Mile
- Smoaks
- Smyrna
- Snelling
- Society Hill
- South Congaree
- Spartanburg
- Springdale
- Springfield
- St. George
- St. Matthews
- St. Stephen
- Starr
- Stuckey
- Sullivan's Island
- Summerton
- Summerville
- Summit
- Sumter
- Surfside Beach
- Swansea
- Sycamore
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Frequently Asked Questions — South Carolina Energy
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The average residential electricity rate in South Carolina is approximately 16.18¢/kWh, compared to the national average of around 16¢/kWh. The average monthly electricity bill is $148.
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The average residential natural gas rate in South Carolina is approximately $1.64/therm per therm. The typical monthly gas bill is $68, though this varies significantly by season.
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The primary electric utilities serving South Carolina include Duke Energy South Carolina, Dominion Energy South Carolina (formerly SCE&G), Santee Cooper. The right utility for you depends on your specific address.
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No — South Carolina has a regulated electricity market, meaning your utility is determined by your location.
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South Carolina residents may qualify for several assistance programs including SC LIHEAP, SC Crisis Intervention Program (CIP). Contact your utility or the state energy office for eligibility details.
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To reduce your energy bills in South Carolina: schedule a free energy audit through your utility, check for state weatherization assistance, upgrade to LED lighting, and optimize your thermostat settings. Ask your utility about budget billing to smooth out seasonal costs.