Santee Cooper's Role in South Carolina Economic Development
2025 Sustainability Report

Santee Cooper plays a pivotal role in South Carolina’s successful economic development by providing reliable, affordable power and other incentives to attract and retain businesses. The process involves site readiness assessments, customized power solutions, infrastructure extensions and incentives like low-cost loans for roads, water and sewer systems. Collaborating closely with the South Carolina Department of Commerce, regional alliances, ports authorities and local governments, Santee Cooper ensures seamless utility integration for new and expanding industries, from manufacturing to logistics and advanced technology. 

“Through strategic planning, Santee Cooper delivers reliable, affordable energy that attracts businesses and fuels South Carolina's growth,” said Manager of Economic Development and Local Government Mike Cool. This approach has helped secure over $25 billion in investments and more than 90,000 jobs statewide since 1988, powering sustainable prosperity for our communities." 

In 2025 alone, Santee Cooper facilitated $2.7 billion in investments and nearly 2,000 new jobs, while administering federal grid resilience grants totaling millions for infrastructure hardening in disadvantaged areas. 

Notable historic wins include Volvo Cars’ first U.S. plant and Redwood Materials’ battery facility at Camp Hall Commerce Park, Inland Port Dillon and Harbor Freight Tools' expansions.  

Santee Cooper has prioritized adding generation over the next decade, including flexible and reliable natural gas, innovative battery storage and additional nuclear power, to support a growing industrial base.   

Through sustainable, resilient power, Santee Cooper continues powering South Carolina's prosperity.