Solar Firm Announces New Solar Farms in S.C.

By Anca Gagiuc

6.48 MWdc Wayne Solar I, Mt. Olive, N.C.

Columbia, S.C.—National Renewable Energy Corp. (NARENCO) announced the construction of two new utility-scale solar farms in Orangeburg County, about 37 miles south of Columbia.

“We are excited to advance two of the largest solar projects in South Carolina and look forward to being a contributing member of the Orangeburg County business community. Once constructed, NARENCO’s solar facilities will provide significant discretionary tax income to the local community and will deliver clean, cost-competitive, on-peak power to South Carolina ratepayers. We would like to thank South Carolina Electric & Gas and the South Carolina Public Service Authority for their willingness to work with us to make these projects successful. We are truly honored to partner with the State of South Carolina and Orangeburg County on these projects, and we look forward to making additional infrastructure investments in the state in the near future,” NARENCO President of Development Jesse Montgomery said in a prepared statement.

The two facilities are slated for operation in the fourth quarter of 2018 and are expected to bring $89.1 million in new capital investment to the area. One of the solar farms will be located at 238 Juniper St. in Neeses, S.C. and the other on Capital Way in Springfield, S.C. Combined, the two will produce renewable solar energy from photovoltaic panels with a capacity of more than 80 megawatts AC. According to officials, 1 megawatt AC is sufficient to power approximately 200 households.

“It’s another great day in South Carolina as we celebrate NARENCO’s decision to invest $89 million in Orangeburg County. Team South Carolina has worked hard to create a competitive business environment for all industries, and when we see a company in the renewable energy industry choose South Carolina as a place to make such a significant investment, it’s a huge win for the entire state,” said Governor Nikki Haley.

“Our thanks go out to the Orangeburg County leadership for their continued efforts and vision to make our community a significant leader in manufacturing, distribution and, now, solar energy in South Carolina. NARENCO’s potential to provide clean energy to roughly 20,000 homes is a big deal for Orangeburg County. We look forward to reducing the carbon footprint on our community with cutting-edge technology,” added Orangeburg County Development Commission Chairman Kenneth Middleton.

Image courtesy of NARENCO