Our History
Founded in 1912, Lockhart Power Company isn’t your typical utility. We’re an investor-owned electric company that’s been family run and community-focused from day one. We serve residential, commercial, industrial, and wholesale customers across five South Carolina counties: Spartanburg, Union, Cherokee, Chester, and York.
The site of the existing Lockhart Hydro Project was originally developed by the state of South Carolina as a canal lock system in the 1820’s. In 1893-94, the original canal was enlarged and a dam was built to supply the newly constructed Lockhart Textile Mill with water for its hydromechanical water wheels. The current Lockhart hydroelectric facility was developed for the purpose of supplying electricity to the textile mill and later to the surrounding communities. In 1918 modifications on the 1.5-mile power canal and construction of the current power house began, both which were completed in 1920. The power house contains five vertical-shaft Francis turbines that were rehabilitated in the late 1980’s.
Here’s something that makes us different: We’ve been green since before green was cool. We started generating renewable hydroelectric power back in 1920, and today nearly 100% of the electricity that we generate comes from renewable sources—hydroelectric and landfill gas. While other utilities are just starting to talk about sustainability, we’ve been walking the talk for over a century.
Our Mission
To safely provide customers with reliable, high-quality, and cost-effective power while addressing their needs quickly and courteously. We will do this in an ethical and environmentally conscious manner while maintaining a high level of employee morale as we pursue profitable growth opportunities.
2007
Lockhart Power Company became a subsidiary of Pacolet Milliken under its Energy and Infrastructure Group. Pacolet Milliken was spun out of Milliken and Company that same year and its family of companies now includes, along with Lockhart Power, Pacolet Milliken Corporate, Bushy Park, Hydera, and Piedmont Green Power.
2012
In 2012, Lockhart Power celebrated its 100th anniversary by giving back to its community. The company planted 100 trees throughout its service area to celebrate each of the company’s 100 years of service. In addition, Lockhart Power sponsored numerous community events throughout the year in order to honor the power company’s 100th anniversary while supporting the local people and economy.
2013
In 2013, Lockhart Power constructed new corporate offices next to the Lockhart hydroelectric facility to accommodate growing administrative space needs and to provide an updated service center for its customers. Also in 2013, Lockhart Power built the Minimum Flow Unit and bought and upgraded the Upper Pacolet Hydro Project, which is located on the site of a previously demolished textile mill.
2018
Lockhart expanded its service territory for the first time in over 25 years with the completion of a new 60 MW sub-station at Pacolet’s Tyger River Industrial Park. This Park, previously in an unassigned electric territory, has been annexed by Lockhart and represents a significant growth opportunity.
2020
Lockhart, together with Pacolet Milliken, developed a 12.75 MW solar facility in the Midway Green Industrial Park.
2020
As of 2020, Lockhart Power also manages and operates a fifth FERC-licensed hydroelectric project, Buzzards Roost, on behalf of the County of Greenwood. Buzzards Roost is located at the outfall of Lake Greenwood.
Our Core Values
Safety First, Always
Every single one of our team members
goes home safe every day. That’s not negotiable. We believe all accidents are preventable, and we live by that principle.
Our People Are Family
We don’t just employ people we
invest in them. Trust, communication, growth opportunities, and actually listening to each other—That’s how we operate.
Reliable & Affordable
We’re proud to offer some of the lowest rates in South Carolina while keeping your lights on when you need them most.
Environmental Champions
With nearly 100% renewable energy generation of our own power, we’re actively powering a more sustainable future.
Win-Win Growth
We only pursue opportunities that benefit our customers and our community. If it’s not good for you, it’s not good for us.
Integrity, No Exceptions
We do the right thing, even when no one’s watching. Especially when no one’s watching.
Customer Focused
Your needs drive our decisions. Quick responses, courteous service, and rates that won’t break the bank—that’s our promise.
The Bottom Line
As your power company—and your neighbors—we’re committed to keeping this corner of South Carolina bright, affordable,
and sustainable for generations to come.