South Carolina Water Utilities expands territory in Midlands

The Public Service Commission of South Carolina (PSC) officially approved the application submitted by South Carolina Water Utilities (SCWU) for a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Richland County and the City of Columbia, expanding SCWU’s service territory to support the upcoming Scout Motors manufacturing facility at the Blythewood Industrial Park.

This establishes the operational framework for wastewater service rights and addresses conflicts over service areas arising from ongoing development activities in the region. The Scout Motors facility is expected to enhance economic growth, generating thousands of new job opportunities in Richland County as it prepares to open.

SCWU President Craig Sorensen said, “The partnership between SCWU, Richland County, and the City of Columbia serves the public interest by promoting growth while ensuring the necessary infrastructure is in place for our future. This approval by the PSC ensures that local needs for wastewater services are met efficiently and effectively.”

The expansion of SCWU’s service area is built upon existing franchise agreements and the Central Midlands Council of Governments Water Quality Management Plan. The PSC has confirmed that the changes will not disrupt any current utility services and are aligned with public interest goals, which include supporting organized growth in Richland County.

SCWU is the state’s largest private provider of water and wastewater services, serving thousands of customers across the Lowcountry, Midlands, Piedmont, and Upstate, and recently completed a consolidation with Blue Granite Water Company, which was the largest water utility consolidation in state history.

About South Carolina Water Utilities

South Carolina Water Utilities is the state’s largest private provider of water and wastewater services, serving thousands of customers across the Lowcountry, Midlands, Piedmont, and Upstate. Through infrastructure investment and operational excellence, we safeguard our natural resources for today and future generations. Our mission is to deliver excellent customer service while protecting public health and the environment through clean, safe, and reliable water and wastewater systems. For more information, visit South Carolina Water Utilities’ website and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram