Santee Cooper proposes a nearly 5% rate increase for residential customers

Some South Carolina households and businesses could face higher electric bills starting next year, as Santee Cooper proposes raising its base rates.

The public utility company’s proposed 2027 adjustment includes average increases of 4.7% for residential customers and 2.9% for commercial customers. On average in 2028, residential customers face a proposed 4.6% increase and commercial customers face a 2.9% increase.

Santee Cooper management recommended base-rate adjustments two years in a row after management and third-party-consultants reviewed costs for 2027 and 2028. Higher utility costs for members will help cover increased operating costs and system investments, according to the electric provider.

“These proposed changes are necessary to allow Santee Cooper to continue delivering the reliable, sustainable electricity that our customers expect,” said President and CEO Jimmy Staton. “We understand customers are concerned about rising prices generally, and we will keep our costs as low as possible while also guaranteeing system dependability for the future.”

But the Santee Cooper board hasn’t yet finalized the rate increases. Customers who want to voice their input can share feedback through written comments and public meetings.

Members can submit written comments through July 30, by emailing rates@santeecooper.com; mailing Santee Cooper, Rates Public Comments (M301), P.O. Box 2946101, Moncks Corner, SC 29461; or delivering comments to headquarters or the Santee Cooper Horry-Georgetown Division Office at 305 A Gardner Lacy Road in Myrtle Beach. Customers are instructed to include their name and account number.

There are also two public meetings with the opportunity for comment scheduled in the Grand Strand, one at 6 p.m. on July 28 at the Waccamaw Neck Library Auditorium in Pawleys Island and another at 2 p.m. on Aug. 31 at the Santee Cooper Horry-Georgetown Office Auditorium in Myrtle Beach. If necessary, a make-up meeting will be held at the Horry-Georgetown Office Auditorium on Aug. 31 at 2 p.m.

Santee Cooper management will present its final recommended rates on Sept. 29, and the board will vote on the rates on Oct. 30. If the rate changes are approved, they will go into effect on Feb. 1, 2027.