Energizing South Carolina
Mark Green
Posted August 10, 2016
Our blog series on the 50 states of energy continues today with South Carolina – another piece of the national energy equation whose sum is an American energy superpower, leading the world in oil and natural gas production.
Click on the thumbnail to open a two-page infographic for the Palmetto State.
South Carolina relies heavily on nuclear power for electricity generation. Four existing nuclear power plants supplied 54 percent of the state’s electricity in 2014, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).
Natural gas use in the state is on the rise. EIA says natural gas in power generation more than doubled between 2008 and 2012, as power plants responded to the market and environmental advantages of abundant domestic gas supply.
The state’s offshore areas are believed to be rich in oil and natural gas reserves – waiting, like other Atlantic states, for the federal government to open them to geological testing, exploration and development. Polling shows nearly 70 percent of registered voters in South Carolina support offshore oil and natural gas development.
On Page 2 of the infographic a chart shows how the country’s energy future is tied to policy choices. Analysis finds that pro-development policies yield broad benefits – from jobs and economic growth to individual household benefits. Meanwhile, policies characterized by regulatory constraints will produce negative impacts.
Energy is essential for virtually every aspect of our daily lives. It powers national, state and local economies, gets us to work and goes into products we rely on for health and comfort. Safe, responsible energy development here at home is linked to national security as well as Americans’ individual prosperity and liberty – in South Carolina and all the 50 states of energy.
About The Author
Mark Green joined API after a career in newspaper journalism, including 16 years as national editorial writer for The Oklahoman in the paper’s Washington bureau. Previously, Mark was a reporter, copy editor and sports editor at an assortment of newspapers. He earned his journalism degree from the University of Oklahoma and master’s in journalism and public affairs from American University. He and his wife Pamela have two grown children and six grandchildren.