NARENCO (National Renewable Energy Corporation) will be constructing two new utility-scale solar farms in Orangeburg County, South Carolina. Both projects are expected to bring $89.1 million in new capital investment to the area about 37 miles south of Columbia.

Expected to be operational by the fourth quarter of 2018, the Orangeburg County facilities, the first located at 238 Juniper Street in Neeses, South Carolina. and the second on Capital Way in Springfield, South Carolina, will produce renewable solar energy from photovoltaic panels currently sized at more than 80 megawatts AC (alternating current). One megawatt AC of solar energy is enough to provide clean energy to approximately 200 South Carolina homes.

“We are excited to advance two of the largest solar projects in South Carolina and look forward to being a contributing member of the Orangeburg County business community. Once constructed, NARENCO’s solar facilities will provide significant discretionary tax income to the local community and will deliver clean, cost-competitive, on-peak power to South Carolina ratepayers. We would like to thank South Carolina Electric & Gas and the South Carolina Public Service Authority for their willingness to work with us to make these projects successful. We are truly honored to partner with the State of South Carolina and Orangeburg County on these projects, and we look forward to making additional infrastructure investments in the state in the near future,” said NARENCO President of Development Jesse Montgomery.

“It’s another great day in South Carolina as we celebrate NARENCO’s decision to invest $89 million in Orangeburg County. Team South Carolina has worked hard to create a competitive business environment for all industries, and when we see a company in the renewable energy industry choose South Carolina as a place to make such a significant investment, it’s a huge win for the entire state,” said Governor Nikki Haley.

“This tremendous investment by NARENCO continues to grow South Carolina’s reputation as a top business destination for industries of all types. I’m proud to welcome NARENCO to Orangeburg County and celebrate the environmental and economic opportunities that this project will create,” Secretary of Commerce Bobby Hitt said.

“We proudly welcome NARENCO to the Central S.C. community and to Orangeburg County. Today’s announcement of $89.1 million will provide economic benefit for decades to come. Renewable energy has had a profound impact on our region over the past year, with three major announcements in three of our member counties,” said Central S.C. Alliance Chairman Mike Brenan.