By Vareva Harris, Co-Editor | Vareva@thewoodrufftimes.com
The South Carolina Public Service Commission (PSC) has scheduled public hearings to gather input from residents regarding Duke Energy Carolinas, LLC’s proposed electric rate increase.
According to the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff, “If the rate hike is approved, the average residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per month would see their monthly bill rise by approximately $10.38.” If approved, the new rates are expected to take effect on March 1, 2026.
Customers can participate in the process by completing a letter of protest online at https://psc.sc.gov/consumer-info/file-letter-protest. Customers may also attend the public hearings to share comments, concerns, or support directly with commissioners.
These public hearings are part of the PSC’s continued effort to promote transparency and public participation in decisions that impact energy costs for residents and businesses.
Public Hearing Schedule:
- October 6, 2025 at 6:00 PM in the Spartanburg County Council Chambers, Spartanburg County Administration Building, 366 North Church Street, Suite 1000, Spartanburg, South Carolina and
- October 13, 2025 at 6:00 PM (Anderson County Council Chambers, 101 South Main Street, Anderson.
- October 14, 2025 at 6:00 PM (Greenville Technical College, Prisma Health Center for Health & Life Sciences Multipurpose Room, 506 S. Pleasantburg Drive, Building Number 101, Greenville, South Carolina)
- October 16, 2025 at 6:00 PM (Greenwood 50 Performing Arts Center, 1816 Cokesbury Road, Greenwood, South Carolina)
- November 13, 2025 at 10:00am – 1:00pm and 4:00 – 8:00pm (Public Service Commission Hearing Room, 101 Executive Center Drive, Columbia, SC)
Residents are encouraged to attend and voice their opinions about how the proposed increase may affect their families, businesses, and communities.
The South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS) represents the public interest in the regulation of electric, natural gas, telecommunications, transportation, and water utilities. The agency also oversees railroad and pipeline safety and administers the Energy, Broadband, Digital Opportunity, and Equipment Distribution Program Offices.
For more information about the rate request and hearing details, visit the PSC’s website or follow this link: https://ow.ly/Ne9R50X3VCM.
