Anderson County is encouraging green energy use primarily through the proposed construction of a state-of-the-art natural gas power plant by Duke Energy, which incorporates advanced clean energy technologies. This new 1,400-megawatt natural gas combined-cycle plant, located near Starr in Anderson, is designed with hydrogen capability to balance fossil fuel use with emerging clean energy. It supports South Carolina’s Energy Security Act by promoting grid reliability, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. The plant’s design significantly reduces water usage by over 80% compared to traditional plants, addressing key regulatory and conservation priorities.
Beyond the plant itself, the project is part of a broader strategy by Duke Energy that includes partnerships for battery storage projects and integration of solar energy, reflecting a move toward a diversified energy portfolio inclusive of renewables and energy storage. This comprehensive approach is backed by political and community leaders in Anderson, highlighting the project’s role in securing a resilient and reliable energy future that supports the county’s economic development and population growth needs.
Local officials, including Anderson County Administrator Rusty Burns, emphasize the importance of reliable electricity for attracting industry and fostering economic growth. The project, with construction planned from 2027 to 2031 if approved, is expected to create hundreds of construction jobs and permanent operational positions, contributing tax revenue that boosts local public services.
Anderson’s green energy encouragement comes through a combination of advanced natural gas technology with hydrogen readiness, integration of renewables and battery storage, political support for modern energy infrastructure, and economic incentives that collectively drive sustainable energy use and reliability in the county.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.ainvest.com/news/duke-energy-anderson-county-plant-catalyst-south-carolina-energy-future-2506/)
[2](https://investors.duke-energy.com/news/news-details/2025/Duke-Energy-proposes-milestone-new-natural-gas-plant-to-help-build-a-stronger-energy-future-for-South-Carolina/default.aspx)
[3](https://www.southcarolinapublicradio.org/sc-news/2025-06-09/duke-energy-wants-to-build-new-natural-gas-plant-in-anderson-county)
[4](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgvZY0mF8m0)
[5](https://acedsc.org/news-events/)
