In a state that pays more for electric bills than any other, the transition to solar energy is gaining momentum in South Carolina. A bill passed by the South Carolina House on Thursday would allow more homeowners to put solar panels on their roofs, while securing solar jobs.
In 2014 when solar was first introduced to South Carolina, the state put a cap on it. That cap is close to being reached and lawmakers say if the Senate doesn’t approve the bill, solar customers won’t be protected from utility companies.
Rep. James Smith, D-Columbia says removing the state cap on the solar industry will allow more customers the ability to produce energy without excessive charges, and reduce costs.
“We are 15 years behind our neighboring states, on the developing of solar power so it’s been a long time coming for South Carolina.” Smith said. “It will eliminate the subsidies that have others not on solar, paying for those on solar.”
Jeffrey Thompson, Owner of Carolina Energy Conservation in Myrtle Beach says they are seeing a surplus of customers from across Horry and Georgetown counties and that if the Senate approves the bill, it means job security for thousands.
“It’s a big victory for the state and it’s basically letting everyone know that the state is becoming more solar, and more than 3,000 jobs are being produced by solar right now and that’s just going to continue to grow and they are good jobs.” Thompson said.
Homeowners like Chuck Carson recently transitioned to solar and he says he has started a domino effect in his neighborhood.
“Right now our bill is extremely low, we are producing just about what we are using.” Carson said. “Ron across the street decided he wanted to put some panels on his house, so the neighborhood is looking at them.”
Utility companies have een vocal against the bill and Rep. Smith has been quick to answer back. Referencing the multiple lawsuits involving the failed nuclear plants and loss by SCANA.