RELEASE: Beyond Policy Podcast Hosts Roundtable Discussion on South Carolina’s Energy Future – Featuring Congresswoman Sheri Biggs

Energy
May 27, 2025
MAY 27, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

COLUMBIA, SC — In a very special episode of the Beyond Policy Podcast released today, Palmetto Promise Institute hosts a roundtable discussion focused on the energy landscape in South Carolina, highlighting the state’s growth, the challenges faced by the nuclear energy sector, and the importance of energy in both economic development and national defense.

Joined by special guest Congresswoman Sheri Biggs (SC-3), the roundtable included an distinguished cross section of business and policy voices from across South Carolina including:

  • Dr. Jody Lipford, Associate Professor of Economics at Francis Marion University

  • Susie Shannon, President & CEO of SC Competes

  • Major General Robin Stilwell, Adjutant General of South Carolina

  • Rick Todd, President & CEO of the SC Trucking Association

  • Michael Mulé, Partner with SURGE Public Affairs

With topics including the lessons learned from the VC Summer nuclear project, the future of nuclear energy, the role of artificial intelligence in energy solutions, and the significance of energy security for military operations and the importance of data centers in securing the workforce of the future, the enlightening conversation emphasizes the need for competitive energy pricing and workforce development to attract industries and support economic growth.

“South Carolina is poised to enter an incredible era of advancement. Leveraging our energy and technology advantages is the key to our continued prosperity. It was a pleasure to bring these distinguished policy leaders together for a timely post-legislative session discussion of what is at stake” said Palmetto Promise Institute Senior Fellow Dr. Oran Smith.

To listen to the full energy roundtable episode of Beyond Policy, click here. You can find Beyond Policy on all major streaming platforms.

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Palmetto Promise Institute (PPI) is an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit, 501(c)(3) educational organization. Founded in 2013, Palmetto Promise Institute champions free-market policies across five key areas: Education, Fiscal Policy, Healthcare, Energy, and Quality of Life. The Institute’s mission is to promote policies that enable every South Carolinian to thrive and reach their full potential.