Officials applaud solar-energy company’s Darlington County plans
From Staff Reports
Two weeks after Darlington County Council signed off on a “fee in lieu of taxes” agreement for solar-energy company Southern Current, the company officially began announcing plans for new facilities in Darlington County.
News media had already reported that the deal approved by council would allow Southern Current to build $141 million worth of solar farms in the county at six sites over the next four years. Last week, the company issued a statement in which S.C. officials applauded the arrangement.
“Southern Current is excited to announce our next round of investments in Darlington County. We could not have done this without the help of the economic development team and the county’s leadership. South Carolina is quickly becoming a leader in renewable energy thanks to the commitment of counties like Darlington,” said Southern Current Chief Development Officer Paul Fleury.
“This latest announcement of new projects by Southern Current further proves the future is bright for solar projects throughout the state. Congratulations to Southern Current. We look forward to watching this company continue to grow and thrive in Darlington County,” said Gov. Henry McMaster.
“This investment by Southern Current will further strengthen South Carolina’s growing reputation in the area of renewable energy. Providing both environmental and economic impacts, we look forward to continuing this partnership for many years to come,” said S.C. Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt.
“Southern Current’s second substantial investment in solar power in Darlington County is proof-positive that Darlington County is welcoming to clean energy growth. This expansion will be a win-win for the county and for the company, and is good for the local economy,” said Darlington County Council Chairman Bobby Hudson.
“It is wonderful to see Southern Current announce their second major investment in Darlington County and their third in the NESA region in the past two years. Renewal energy continues to be a great investment in the region and Darlington County leads the way in recognizing the benefits these projects can have on their communities,” said NESA Executive Committee Chairman Yancey McGill.