Charging Toward Innovation: How the South Carolina Electric Vehicle Stakeholder Initiative Aims to Cement The Palmetto State as the 'Battery Belt'

South Carolina is emerging as a leader in the United States' burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) industry. A feature article in the March/April issue of SCBIZ Magazine explores the role of the South Carolina Electric Vehicle Stakeholder Initiative in streamlining the state's conversion to EV technology.

The initiative culminated in fall 2022 with the release of a report from the SC Energy Office providing recommendations that range from ramping up statewide awareness efforts to development of a statewide electrification roadmap. The report was the result of 18 months of discussion among more than 350 diverse stakeholders representing numerous private and public sector organizations. The initiative was a partnership of the SC Energy Office and Duke's Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment & Sustainability.

"Electrifying transportation is a critical step in our nation's clean energy transition, and states see that electric vehicle deployment can offer substantial economic opportunity," said Brian Murray, interim director of the Nicholas Institute. "States that want to go faster and further with the EV industry can strengthen their strategies by inviting public input and collaboration in key policy decisions."