Trystan Casey
South Carolina has a regulated electricity market, which means consumers have a limited choice of electricity providers. However, as electricity rates vary, it is still worth shopping around to find the best deal. The average electricity rate in South Carolina is 14.42 cents per kilowatt-hour, but prices vary across providers, with the lowest currently being Greenwood Electric Company at 10.73 cents per kilowatt hour. Out of the state's 40 electricity suppliers, the largest by total revenue is Dominion Energy.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average electricity rate | 14.42 cents per kilowatt hour |
| Lowest priced provider | Greenwood Electric Company, 10.73 cents per kilowatt hour |
| Largest electricity supplier by total revenue | Dominion Energy |
| Main fuels for electricity generation | Nuclear (53.77%), Natural Gas (22.69%), Coal (16.51%) |
| Average monthly electricity bill | $153 |
| Average monthly residential electricity bill | $152.97 |
| Number of power plants | 196 |
| Number of electricity suppliers | Over 40 |
| Customer choice of supplier | 1-2 options |
| Outages per year | 1.29 |
| Average outage duration | 121.25 minutes |
| Largest power & water utility | Santee Cooper |
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What You'll Learn
Average electricity rates and bills
South Carolina's average residential electricity rate is 14 ¢/kWh, or 14.42 cents per kilowatt-hour, which is 31% lower than the national average of 20 ¢/kWh. This rate is calculated by multiplying the average monthly consumption of 1,348 kWh by the average electric rate. The average residential electricity bill in South Carolina is $132 per month, ranking 3rd in the U.S. and 23.36% higher than the national average of $107. However, some sources state that the average monthly cost is $152.97 or $190.
Commercial electricity rates in South Carolina differ from residential rates, averaging 9.63 ¢/kWh, which ranks the state 20th in the nation. The average monthly commercial electricity bill is $497, which is 20.99% lower than the national average of $629.
Industrial electricity rates in South Carolina are even lower, averaging 6.02 ¢/kWh, ranking the state 35th in the nation. The average monthly industrial electricity bill is $32,173, which is significantly higher than the national average of $7,483.
South Carolina's top fuel for electricity generation is nuclear power, accounting for 53.77% of production in the state. Natural gas and coal are the second and third most commonly used fuel types, making up 22.69% and 16.51% of electricity production, respectively.
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Lowest-priced electricity providers
South Carolina has over 40 electricity suppliers, but consumers are limited to a single supplier due to the state's regulated electricity market. The average electricity rate in the state is 14.42 cents per kilowatt-hour, so it's worth shopping around for rates below this amount.
The Gaffney Board of Public Works (GBPW) has consistently offered the lowest residential electric rates of all electric utility companies in South Carolina. GBPW uses a declining block rate, which means that the more electricity a household uses, the cheaper it becomes per kilowatt-hour. This is the opposite of many utilities, which charge higher rates as usage increases.
According to a recent survey, the lowest-priced provider is currently the Greenwood Electric Company, at 10.73 cents per kilowatt-hour. Santee Cooper, South Carolina's largest power and water utility, also offers affordable rates and incentives for energy-efficient products.
To save on your monthly electricity bill, it's worth comparing rates and considering a switch, especially if you're currently paying above-average rates. Keep in mind that electric rates in South Carolina are typically highest in November, with the highest average bill in July.
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Electricity suppliers and availability
South Carolina has a variety of electricity suppliers, including cooperatives and power companies. Dominion Energy and Santee Cooper are two of the major players in the state's energy market. Dominion Energy serves multiple states, including South Carolina, and offers its customers instant discounts on energy-efficient products. On the other hand, Santee Cooper is South Carolina's largest power and water utility, providing services to both residential and business customers. They offer discounted prices and rebates on energy-efficient products and special rates for electric vehicle charging during off-peak hours.
When it comes to availability, power outages can occur, and Santee Cooper works to restore power as quickly as possible. They also provide information on reporting and viewing outages, as well as tips on staying safe around electricity. It is important to note that the availability and reliability of electricity can vary across different providers and regions within the state.
To make an informed decision when shopping for electricity companies in South Carolina, it is recommended to research the specific providers serving your area. Compare their rates, plans, and customer service offerings. Additionally, consider factors such as renewable energy options, energy efficiency programs, and any potential discounts or rebates that may be available.
It is worth noting that South Carolina also has electric cooperatives, which are non-profit, member-owned utilities that operate in specific communities. These cooperatives offer an alternative to investor-owned utilities and may provide more personalized services and competitive rates. By choosing an electric cooperative, consumers can support local energy production and potentially have a voice in how their electricity is sourced and priced.
Overall, South Carolina offers a diverse range of electricity suppliers, giving residents the opportunity to shop around for the best rates, services, and commitment to renewable energy sources. By considering factors such as availability, reliability, and customer support, individuals can make informed choices to meet their specific energy needs.
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Power outages and restoration
Power outages can happen in an instant, and South Carolina is no exception. Storm damage can affect main power lines, individual services, transformers, or all of the above. When a storm threatens, energy companies like Dominion Energy and Santee Cooper are there to support their customers 24/7. Here are some steps you can take to prepare for and manage power outages.
Before a Power Outage
It's important to always be prepared with battery- or manually-powered medical equipment in the event of an outage. During a major storm or threat of a storm, customers are proactively called so they can make plans to sustain their equipment if a power outage occurs. White Cross assistance is offered to customers who have electrical medical equipment in their homes.
During a Power Outage
If you experience a power outage, check your circuit panel or fuse box. If you have circuit breakers, flip the main breaker switch to the "off" position, then back to the "on" position. If you have fuses, check your fuse box and replace any that have blown. Check the outside disconnect below your meter (not all buildings have an outside disconnect). Check with your neighbours to see if they have power.
After a Power Outage
Once a power outage has been reported, energy companies will work to restore power as quickly as possible. Restoration times are based on several factors, including the nature and number of outage incidents. The first steps in restoring power involve assessing damage and protecting the safety of emergency workers, repair crews, and the public. Priority is given to clearing downed power lines and restoring power to critical facilities, such as hospitals, fire and police stations, and water purification facilities.
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Energy-saving products and rebates
Santee Cooper, South Carolina's largest power and water utility, also offers an online one-stop shop for energy-saving products. Residential customers can access affordable, energy-efficient products, most of which are offered at discounted prices or with automatic rebates. Their program can also help cover the costs of making energy-efficient upgrades to your business.
Additionally, the federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) includes funding for consumer home energy rebate programs that will be administered by individual states. South Carolina is expected to receive over $137 million to implement the HOMES Efficiency Rebates (Home Energy Performance-Based, Whole House Rebates) and the HEAR Electrification Rebates (Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates) programs. The rebate amounts for these programs will depend on factors such as energy savings, the cost of retrofits, and household income. While these specific rebate programs are not yet available in South Carolina, there are other federal, state, local, and utility programs that consumers may be eligible for in the meantime.
To further reduce energy costs, Dominion Energy recommends using ENERGY STAR®-qualified equipment and LED lights, and provides tips on how to use less energy to lower electric and natural gas bills.
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Frequently asked questions
The average electricity rate in South Carolina is 14.42 cents per kilowatt-hour. The lowest-priced provider is currently Greenwood Electric Company, at 10.73 cents per kilowatt hour.
The average monthly electricity bill for South Carolina residents is $152.97, compared to the US average of $142.46.
The main fuels used for electricity generation in South Carolina are nuclear, natural gas, and coal, accounting for 53.77%, 22.69%, and 16.51% respectively.
