South Carolina Sets Hearing for Canadys Gas Plant
State regulators are holding a public hearing to discuss a proposed natural-gas power plant in Colleton County.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Utilities
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Should your local government approve air permits for new natural gas power plants?
The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services has scheduled a public hearing to review a draft air permit for a new natural-gas facility. The proposed Canadys plant aims to expand electricity generation in the region.
Why it matters
Dominion Energy and Santee Cooper are pursuing the project to meet growing energy demands in South Carolina. The hearing provides a venue for officials to address the environmental implications and technical specifications of the power plant.
The proposed facility will utilize three combined-cycle power trains to reach a 2,200-megawatt capacity. Filing documents estimate annual greenhouse gas emissions could reach 7.9 million tons.
The players
Dominion Energy
Dominion Energy is a major power and energy company that serves millions of customers across several states.
Santee Cooper
Santee Cooper is South Carolina's state-owned electric and water utility that provides power to residential and commercial customers.
South Carolina Department of Environmental Services
This state agency is responsible for protecting the environment and public health through the regulation and permitting of industrial activities.
The details
The facility will include cooling towers, fuel storage tanks, and emergency diesel generators. To manage environmental impact, developers have proposed using catalysts and low-emission burners to reduce outputs of nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and soot.
Timeline
October 20, 2026: Public hearing scheduled for the gas plant air permit in Walterboro.
Market Landscape
This project represents a significant infrastructure investment by utility providers seeking to secure long-term energy reliability. It positions Dominion Energy and Santee Cooper to capture regional load demand through the development of large-scale natural gas generation.
The potential construction of the Canadys plant aims to stabilize the regional electricity supply, which may impact long-term utility planning for residents. Residents attending the hearing can directly influence the regulatory review process regarding local air quality and plant operations.
The takeaway
The upcoming public hearing is a critical opportunity for the public to engage with the technical details of the proposed facility. Residents should prepare questions regarding the projected emission levels and the effectiveness of the proposed burner technology.
Further reading
For broader context on energy infrastructure developments, visit South Carolina Utilities.
Live Poll
Should your local government approve air permits for new natural gas power plants?
