SCMC Launches Energy Council at Inaugural South Carolina Energy Summit

South Carolina Manufacturers and Commerce (SCMC) has announced the launch of its new Energy Council, a member-led initiative that will bring together business leaders and industry experts to discuss the issues shaping South Carolina's energy future and help inform policies that support reliable, affordable energy.

"One of our highest priorities during this first year as a newly minted organization has been engaging members, policymakers, and key stakeholders to get their feedback, educate them, and lay a firm foundation for productive conversations regarding energy policy," said SCMC president and CEO Sara Hazzard. "The Energy Council reflects SCMC's commitment to ensuring employers have a forum to engage on the issues shaping our state's energy future. We're proud to launch this new council and look forward to the ideas, partnerships, and leadership it will foster in the years ahead."

The announcement was made during SCMC's inaugural South Carolina Energy Summit, where business and energy leaders from across the state gathered to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing South Carolina's evolving energy landscape. Topics included energy generation, grid reliability, infrastructure, workforce development, and emerging technologies. The full Summit agenda is available here.

The Council will be chaired by Greg A. Thompson, president and chief executive officer of Thompson Construction Group, Inc. A longtime South Carolina business leader, Thompson has played a key role in economic development and infrastructure projects across the state.

"Energy impacts every business in South Carolina, regardless of industry, size, or location. As demand continues to rise, it's more important than ever that the business community comes together to educate and inform, share ideas, and identify solutions to meet our state's growing energy needs," said Energy Council Chairman Greg Thompson. "I look forward to leading this council during a critical time as we bring together business leaders and policymakers from across the state to collaborate on the issues shaping South Carolina's future and advance policies that ensure we have the reliable, affordable power needed to support continued economic prosperity."

The Energy Council joins SCMC's growing network of councils and committees, which bring together industry leaders, subject matter experts, and employers to shape policy, share insights, and advance South Carolina’s economic competitiveness. Learn more about SCMC's councils and committees here.