Duke Energy announced on Mar. 18 that the Ebbie Solar project in Marion, South Carolina, has entered service as the first facility in the state to operate under its updated Green Source Advantage (GSA) program. The company also reported that its Renewable Choice program surpassed enrollment targets in 2025, reflecting increased demand from large commercial and industrial customers for clean energy options.
The development is significant as it demonstrates growing interest among businesses to access renewable energy and meet sustainability goals. Duke Energy’s programs are designed to provide flexible pathways for companies seeking to reduce their carbon footprint while supporting new renewable generation on the grid.
The Ebbie Solar facility, built with American-made panels and domestic steel, will generate more than 23,000 megawatt-hours of clean electricity annually through a long-term agreement with Schaeffler Group. Joe Bailey, region facilities manager for Schaeffler, said: “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, said: “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.”
The Renewable Choice program has subscribed 57 megawatts 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 one megawatt of annual peak demand to match up to 100% of their electricity use. The Clean Energy Environmental Attribute (CEEA) revenue provides benefits to all retail customers by bundling renewable energy certificates (RECs) with associated carbon emission reductions.
The Ebbie Solar project completed final commissioning and began operational service on Feb. 3, 2026. Schaeffler will start full participation in the GSA program this month.
