A grand opening and ribbon cutting for Duke Energy’s new 750-megawatt combined-cycle natural gas plant at the W.S. Lee Station was held today (Friday, June 1). The clean, high-tech natural gas officially began serving customers on April 5.
Attending the event were local and state dignitaries including Congressman Jeff Duncan, Representative Jay West, Anderson County Council District 7 Representative Cindy Wilson and Williamston Mayor Mack Durham.
Lynn Good, Chairman, President and CEO of Duke Energy and Duke Energy South Carolina state president Kodwo Ghartey-Tagoe, along with many Duke representatives also attended.
Tagoe welcomed guests and provided safety guidelines.
The Palmetto High School AFJROTC Color Guard presented colors. The Palmetto High School chorus sand the Star Spangled Banner, which was followed with the pledge of allegiance.
Duke Energy CEO Lynn Good made remarks about the overall plan for Duke to provide cleaner energy and contribute to the power grid. She said Duke was moving forward in working to reduce emissions
Good also provided information about the start of Duke Power in Rock Hill, SC. One of the three original founders was W. S. Lee, an engineer who was instrumental in transmitting energy a long distance, she said.
His grandson, Bill Lee, brought nuclear power into the Duke system.
“We are looking forward to ways we can serve the region,” Good said.
Jay West, Cindy Wilson and Mack Durham also spoke.
Duke State President Tagoe flipped the giant switch, which lit up, ceremoniously turning on the power.
Refreshments were provided the Culinary Arts program at the Anderson Districts One and Two Career and Technology Center.
Plant tours were then provided to guests.
Duke Energy South Carolina state president Kodwo Ghartey-Tagoe Tagoe ceremoniously “turns on the power” as part of the grand opening and ribbon cutting event held at the W. S. Lee Station.
