Overview

Resources and Consumption

South Carolina’s only substantial energy resource is its system of rivers and lakes, which offers potential for hydroelectric power generation. Driven in part by the energy-intensive chemical manufacturing industry, South Carolina’s industrial sector accounts for approximately two-fifths of State energy consumption.

Petroleum

South Carolina receives petroleum products shipments at the Port of Charleston and via the Colonial and Plantation pipelines from the Gulf Coast. The Dixie Pipeline, also originating in the Gulf Coast, supplies the State’s propane demand. South Carolina's total petroleum consumption is near the national median,, and South Carolina is one of the few States that allow the statewide use of conventional motor gasoline. (Most States require the use of specific gasoline blends in non-attainment areas due to air-quality considerations.)

Natural Gas

South Carolina’s natural gas supply is transported from the Gulf Coast by two major interstate pipeline systems. Although more than one-fourth of households in South Carolina use natural gas as their main energy source for home heating, winters are generally mild and overall demand is relatively low.

Coal, Electricity, and Renewables

Nuclear power accounts for more than one-half of South Carolina’s electricity generation. With four active nuclear power plants, South Carolina is among the top nuclear power producers in United States. Coal fuels about two-fifths of net electricity generation. South Carolina has no coal mines, and coal-fired power plants rely on supplies shipped from Kentucky, and, to a lesser extent, West Virginia and Tennessee. South Carolina produces hydroelectric power from facilities located in several river and lake basins. Per capita electricity consumption in South Carolina is among the highest in the United States. The State’s high per capita electricity consumption is due to high industrial use, high demand for electric air-conditioning during hot summer months, and the widespread use of electricity for home heating during typically mild winter months. Nearly three-fifths of South Carolina households use electricity as their primary energy source for home heating.