Dominion Energy is asking South Carolina regulators for a 12.7% rate increase, which would raise the average monthly bill for its customers by about $20—from roughly $157 to about $177 per month. The South Carolina Public Service Commission (PSC) is now reviewing the request, following a public hearing in North Charleston where dozens of residents voiced concerns.
Why Dominion wants the hike
Dominion says the region is growing fast, with more homes and businesses driving up electricity demand, and that recent storms such as Hurricane Helene damaged infrastructure, adding to costs. The company argues the increase is needed to upgrade equipment, maintain reliability, and serve around 820,000 customers in the state.
How it affects customers
Testifiers at the hearing said they are already struggling with inflation, higher gas prices, and previous utility hikes, and warned that low‑ and middle‑income families would feel the pinch hardest. Consumer advocates and residents have questioned why all customers must “foot the bill,” arguing that long‑term planning and better cost‑management could have eased the impact.
What happens next
The PSC has scheduled additional public input opportunities in March–May, and will weigh Dominion’s request against customer testimony and economic data before deciding whether to approve, reduce, or reject the proposed increase. For now the 12.7% hike is still only a proposal, not a final bill change.
