Area Development
Tradewind Energy, one of the largest independent renewable energy development companies in the United States, is launching a new solar production facility in Orangeburg County, South Carolina. The project is expected to bring approximately $85 million in new capital investment.

Located along Bowman Branch Highway near Bowman, construction of the new 75-MW development is expected to begin in 2018.

Founded in 2003, Tradewind Energy develops low-cost wind and solar energy for diverse markets, while maintaining an uncompromising commitment to long-term project quality. To date, Tradewind Energy has completed more than 3,000 megawatts (MW) of wind and solar power projects, while rapidly expanding its development portfolio. The company is actively developing more than six gigawatts (GW) of wind and three GW of solar projects across the United States, totaling more than $5 billion in capital investment.

“We are thrilled to partner with Orangeburg County and the South Carolina Department of Commerce on this exciting endeavor. It’s gratifying to see the support in the region, and we are excited to bring low-cost solar energy to market and create opportunities for economic development in the county through the development of the Palmetto Plains Solar Project,” Tradewind Energy Development Manager Justin McGeeney said.

“South Carolina is a place where companies of every kind can succeed and grow. The fact that Tradewind Energy has decided to invest $85 million and call our great state home is an important signal to the world that South Carolina is open for business,” Governor Henry McMaster said.

“This investment by Tradewind Energy will further strengthen South Carolina’s growing reputation in the area of renewable and sustainable energy. We welcome their tremendous $85 million investment in Orangeburg County and look forward to watching Tradewind’s continued success,” Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt said.