September 15, 2025

Texas Developer Takes on Solar Power Challenges in South Carolina

News Summary

TOCE Solar is appealing to the South Carolina Public Service Commission to overturn a local rejection of their solar farm project in Sumter County. The developer plans to utilize 1,700 acres for renewable energy generation, despite community concerns over environmental impacts and land usage. With a hearing approaching, the stakes are high for clean energy expansion in the region, balancing the need for sustainable energy against the preservation of local landscapes.

South Carolina regulators are set to review a solar farm proposal from TOCE Solar after Sumter County denied the company’s plans earlier this year. The proposed project, known as TOCE SC Solar 1, aims to utilize 1,700 acres located approximately 12 miles northwest of Sumter, in a region near Borden and Black River roads. A hearing by the South Carolina Public Service Commission (PSC) is scheduled for December to assess the appeal.

TOCE Solar, a subsidiary of Treaty Oak Clean Energy based in Austin, Texas, is pushing for the solar farm despite local opposition. In its application submitted on August 29, the company labeled the project as a source of clean, renewable energy with minimal environmental footprint. The project’s goal is to diversify South Carolina’s energy supply and support the state’s ambitions in transitioning away from older, carbon-heavy energy sources.

The renewable energy produced by the solar farm is intended to be sold to Santee Cooper, a state-owned utility, and Central Electric Power Cooperative, which collectively serve around 20 independent providers in South Carolina. As demand for electricity grows—especially due to the expansion of economic activities and data centers—the company argues that this project is crucial for meeting those needs efficiently.

In May 2025, the Sumter City-County Board of Zoning Appeals rejected TOCE Solar’s quest for an exemption, claiming the solar farm would not align with the area’s character. This unanimous decision was influenced by vocal local opposition during public meetings, where residents expressed concerns over potential environmental implications and the impact on wildlife habitats. Significant apprehension was also raised regarding the location of the solar facility on agricultural land, with many community members suggesting it could be better situated in industrial or urban areas instead.

If the PSC ultimately denies TOCE Solar’s application, the solar farm will not move forward, which may lead utilities to seek more expensive energy sources, potentially increasing consumer utility bills. The decision by the regulators will be critical in determining the future landscape of energy production in South Carolina.

In light of the controversy surrounding the proposed solar farm, TOCE Solar insists that its project is vital for the state’s energy infrastructure. The hearing set for December will provide a forum for both the company and local stakeholders to present their cases. The outcome of this hearing is pivotal not only for TOCE Solar but also for South Carolina’s pursuit of sustainable energy solutions.

As South Carolina continues to evaluate renewable energy projects, the tension between local community interests and broader state energy goals remains a significant factor in determining the future of such initiatives. The PSC’s ruling will ultimately reflect how much weight is given to community concerns versus the drive for expanding clean energy options in the state.

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Author: STAFF HERE GEORGETOWN

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