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.
Texas developer TOCE Solar is appealing to South Carolina regulators after Sumter County rejected its solar farm project earlier this year. The company plans to proceed with its proposal despite the denial, as it seeks a certificate from the South Carolina Public Service Commission (PSC). The PSC has scheduled a hearing for the case in December 2025.
The proposed solar facility, named TOCE SC Solar 1, aims to occupy approximately 1,700 acres located about 12 miles northwest of Sumter, situated near Borden and Black River roads. The project intends to harness solar energy through racks of solar panels, inverters, transformers, and other necessary equipment to generate electricity.
In its application, filed on August 29, TOCE Solar describes the project as a source of clean, renewable energy that would have minimal environmental impact. The solar farm aims to diversify South Carolina’s energy supply, supporting the state’s objectives of replacing aging, carbon-heavy energy sources. The generated power is set to be sold to Santee Cooper, a state-owned utility, and Central Electric Power Cooperative, which serves around 20 independent providers in the region.
Proponents of the project argue that the solar farm is essential for meeting the rising demand for electricity, driven by economic growth and the influx of data centers in the area. They emphasize the importance of transitioning to renewable energy sources for both environmental and economic sustainability.
However, local opposition emerged during public meetings, which contributed to the decision by the Sumter City-County Board of Zoning Appeals to unanimously deny the project’s request for an exemption on May 19, 2025. Opponents cited environmental concerns, arguing that the solar farm’s placement on agricultural land could pose risks to wildlife and the local ecosystem. Residents expressed a preference for establishing such facilities in industrial or urban areas instead, where they might be less disruptive to the community’s character.
If the PSC ultimately denies TOCE Solar’s appeal, it would mean that the solar farm project cannot proceed. Industry analysts warn that without this project, utilities may need to turn to more expensive energy alternatives, which could impact consumer electricity prices. The push for renewable energy, particularly solar, is seen as a key strategy for ensuring an affordable and sustainable energy future in South Carolina.
TOCE Solar’s developments reflect broader trends in the energy sector as companies increasingly seek to invest in renewable sources. The growing demand for sustainable energy solutions presents both opportunities and challenges, as stakeholders navigate local concerns while aiming to fulfill the rising energy needs of the state.
The case highlights the ongoing dialogue surrounding renewable energy projects and community interests, with regulators, developers, and local residents all playing critical roles in shaping the future of energy generation in South Carolina.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Post and Courier: Texas Developer Appeals Sumter County’s Rejection of Solar Farm Plans
- WLTX: Sumter County White Palmetto Solar Project 2025
- WISTV: Proposed Zoning for White Palmetto Solar Farm Denied
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Solar Energy
- Google Search: Sumter County Solar Farm
Author: STAFF HERE COLLEGE WRITER
The COLLEGE STATION STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECollegeStation.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in College Station, Brazos County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Brazos Valley Fair & Rodeo, Chilifest, and Aggie Muster. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bryan-College Station Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Brazos Valley, plus leading businesses in education, biotechnology, and retail that power the local economy such as Texas A&M University, Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, and H-E-B. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
