Duke Energy helps customers in South Carolina advance sustainability goals through expanded clean energy initiatives
MWN-AI** Summary
Duke Energy has made significant strides in promoting sustainability for its customers in South Carolina through its expanded clean energy initiatives. The latest development is the successful launch of the Ebbie Solar project, a 10-megawatt (MW) solar facility in Marion, South Carolina. This project marks the first operational installment under Duke Energy's updated Green Source Advantage (GSA) program, aimed at providing large business customers with access to renewable energy. The facility is expected to generate over 23,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) of clean electricity annually and supports the sustainability efforts of the Schaeffler Group, which will utilize the renewable energy generated to offset roughly 25% of its energy consumption across its facilities.
In recent years, Duke Energy has observed a notable increase in demand for renewable energy among large commercial and industrial clients, as reflected by the success of its Renewable Choice program that surpassed enrollment targets in 2025. This program allows eligible nonresidential customers to match up to 100% of their electricity usage with renewable sources while also providing benefits to the broader community through Clean Energy Environmental Attributes (CEEAs), which represent combined renewable energy credits and carbon emission reductions.
Duke Energy's commitment to clean energy options is driven by customer feedback, with the goal of offering scalable solutions that not only meet customer demand but also contribute positively to the energy system as a whole. With ongoing investments in grid upgrades and cleaner energy sources, Duke Energy is well-positioned to support businesses in advancing their sustainability goals while building a more sustainable energy future. The Ebbie Solar project officially commenced service in February 2026, reinforcing Duke Energy's role as a leader in the clean energy transition.
MWN-AI** Analysis
Duke Energy's recent initiatives in South Carolina signal a significant shift toward a more sustainable energy landscape, particularly for large commercial and industrial customers. The condition of the renewable energy market is ripe for investment, particularly as demand for clean energy surges. The implementation of the Green Source Advantage (GSA) program and successful enrollment in the Renewable Choice program exhibit robust business interest in environmentally friendly energy solutions.
The Ebbie Solar project, generating 10 megawatts (MW) and powered by American-made materials, is a tangible manifestation of Duke Energy's commitments and aligns with broader sustainability goals. For businesses like the Schaeffler Group, which will benefit substantially by offsetting 25% of energy consumption, such arrangements are not merely advantageous—they are critical for maintaining competitive edge and corporate responsibility in an increasingly eco-conscious market.
Investors should consider the implications of these developments. Companies engaging in renewable energy initiatives are likely to experience enhanced brand loyalty, market differentiation, and potential cost savings through energy efficiency improvements. Additionally, firms optimizing their energy portfolios with renewable solutions may see favorable policy treatment as governments increasingly push for greener energy solutions.
Duke Energy's proactive measures to offer flexible and scalable renewable energy options suggest a well-considered strategy to increase market share in the evolving energy landscape. Companies looking to enhance their sustainability practices should evaluate partnerships and programs similar to those of Duke Energy.
In conclusion, as Duke Energy expands its clean energy initiatives, it provides a roadmap for companies seeking sustainable energy solutions. Market participants must stay informed and adaptable, leveraging advancements in renewable energy to ensure they remain competitive in a rapidly changing environment. Investing in companies pioneering renewable technologies may yield significant long-term benefits as the global economy shifts toward sustainability.
**MWN-AI Summary and Analysis is based on asking OpenAI to summarize and analyze this news release.
PR Newswire
- First South Carolina project under Duke Energy's updated Green Source Advantage program enters service
- Renewable Choice program enrollment exceeds targets as business demand for clean energy grows
MARION, S.C., March 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy has placed the 10?megawatt (MW) Ebbie Solar project into service in Marion, S.C., marking the first project in the state to operate under its updated Green Source Advantage program. The milestone comes as Duke Energy's Renewable Choice program exceeded initial enrollment targets in 2025, reflecting strong demand from large commercial and industrial customers for flexible access to clean energy.
The background: Through the GSA program, large business customers can support new renewable energy projects on Duke Energy's grid. Customers receive renewable energy certificates (RECs) and bill credits for the clean energy the projects produce.
Go deeper: Located in Marion, S.C., the Ebbie Solar facility will provide customer?driven renewable energy for the Schaeffler Group, supporting the company's sustainability goals. Built with American?made panels and domestic steel, the 10?MW facility is expected to generate more than 23,000 megawatt?hours (MWh) of clean electricity annually under a long?term agreement through the GSA program.
The project was supported by Enel X Advisory Services in its advisory role to Schaeffler and was developed by Headwater Energy, which owns and will operate the facility.
What they're saying:
Joe Bailey, region facilities manager for Schaeffler:
"Partnering with Duke Energy and Headwater Energy on the solar project in South Carolina marks a milestone in our sustainability journey. By generating clean electricity that offsets approximately 25% of the combined energy consumption across our three Cheraw plants, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also reinforcing our commitment to clean energy."
Heather Shirley Smith, Duke Energy's vice president of regulatory affairs and policy for South Carolina:
"Customer feedback has shaped how we design our clean energy offerings, giving businesses multiple, flexible ways to meet their energy and sustainability goals. By building scalable options that balance customer choice with system?wide benefits, we're helping bring new renewable generation onto the grid while delivering value for all customers."
Zoom out: Duke Energy's Renewable Choice program – its newest clean energy offering for large business customers in South Carolina – has surpassed enrollment targets, underscoring strong demand for flexible, turnkey access to renewable energy. The voluntary program has subscribed 57 MW of new renewable capacity (42 MW in Duke Energy Carolinas territory and 15 MW in Duke Energy Progress territory), enabling eligible nonresidential customers with at least 1 MW of annual peak demand to match up to 100% of their electricity use while providing benefits to all retail customers through Clean Energy Environmental Attribute (CEEA) revenue.
CEEAs are environmental attributes that bundle RECs plus the associated carbon emission reduction/carbon-free attribute tied to renewable energy generation (often tracked per 1 MWh of clean energy).
Why it matters: Demand continues to grow from businesses seeking greater access to renewable energy. Duke Energy is responding by offering new and enhanced programs that help customers make progress toward their renewable energy and sustainability goals.
Next steps: The Ebbie Solar project completed final commissioning and entered operational service on Feb. 3, 2026, and is now delivering renewable energy to the Duke Energy Progress South Carolina grid. Schaeffler will begin full participation in the Green Source Advantage program this month.
Duke Energy
Duke Energy (NYSE: DUK), a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America's largest energy holding companies. The company's electric utilities serve 8.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky.
Duke Energy is executing an ambitious energy transition, keeping customer reliability and value at the forefront as it builds a smarter energy future. The company is investing in major electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables and energy storage.
More information is available at duke-energy.com and the Duke Energy News Center. Follow Duke Energy on X, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook, and visit illumination for stories about the people and innovations powering our energy transition.
Contact: Ryan Mosier
24-Hour: 800.559.3853
SOURCE Duke Energy
FAQ**
How does the updated Green Source Advantage program by Duke Energy Corporation DUK facilitate large businesses in South Carolina to meet their sustainability objectives through renewable energy projects?
What role does the Ebbie Solar project play in supporting Schaeffler's sustainability goals, and how does it contribute to Duke Energy Corporation DUK's overall clean energy initiatives in the region?
In what ways has the Renewable Choice program from Duke Energy Corporation DUK exceeded enrollment targets, and what implications does this have for large commercial and industrial customers seeking renewable energy?
How does Duke Energy Corporation DUK address customer feedback in the development of its renewable energy offerings, ensuring that businesses in South Carolina can achieve their energy and sustainability goals effectively?
**MWN-AI FAQ is based on asking OpenAI questions about Duke Energy Corporation (NYSE: DUK).
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