Emerging Sectors RENEWABLE ENERGY SMALL-SCALE MANUFACTURING

With the Clemson University Dominion Energy Innovation Center, the world’s most-advanced windturbine drivetrain testing facility, and the recent opening of Nexans who manufacture high voltage subsea cables to bring electricity produced offshore to land, the region is poised to be a major player in wind energy. With a federal target of creating 30 gigawatts of offshore wind power by 20301, momentum is gaining to use wind to power the region’s homes and employ its residents.

Another example of renewable energy in action is The Dorchester Project, a 20 MW biomass fired facility in Dorchester County, fueled by mill and harvesting residues.2 Also, the installation of a Community Solar Garden by Berkeley Electric Cooperative that allows members to lease solar panels, located in the garden, and be credited with the output, rather than installing panels on their roof.3

1 – Source: U.S. Department of the Interior. 2022. “Clean Energy Future.” www.doi.gov/priorities/clean-energy-future

2 – Source: Atlantic Power & Utilities. 2022. www.atlanticpower.com/assets/projects/dorchester

3 – Source: Berkeley Electric Cooperative. 2020. “Community Solar.” www.berkeleyelectric.coop/community-solar