About this book:

Delve into the captivating saga of SCANA Corporation, a utility giant whose nearly two-century journey mirrors the transformative arc of American energy itself. From its humble origins as the Charleston Gas Light Company in 1846, providing the first gas illumination to the bustling port city, to its evolution into a diversified energy powerhouse serving millions across the Southeast, SCANA’s story is one of innovation, strategic growth, and the complex interplay between corporate ambition and public trust. This book chronicles the company’s pivotal role in electrifying and gassing the Carolinas, its groundbreaking hydroelectric achievements with Lake Murray, and its ambitious foray into nuclear power, which tragically became its undoing.

Uncover the meticulously researched details of SCANA’s rise, its savvy acquisitions like the Public Service Company of North Carolina, and its ventures into telecommunications, all underpinned by a complex dance with evolving federal and state regulations. However, the narrative takes a dramatic turn with the ill-fated V.C. Summer nuclear expansion project. Explore how this multi-billion-dollar endeavor spiraled into catastrophic delays and cost overruns, culminating in the shocking abandonment of the reactors and the ensuing "Nukegate" scandal that rocked South Carolina. This comprehensive account dissects the legal reckoning that followed, including the criminal convictions of top executives, and the profound financial aftershock that ultimately led to SCANA’s acquisition by Dominion Energy.

More than just a corporate history, "SCANA Corp: The Story of An American Company" serves as a vital case study on governance, transparency, and accountability in the critical utility sector. It illuminates the enduring lessons from the V.C. Summer debacle for the future of energy development, emphasizing the delicate balance between meeting escalating power demands and navigating the complex challenges of decarbonization, infrastructure modernization, and maintaining public confidence. This book is an essential read for anyone interested in American business history, the energy industry, regulatory policy, and the profound consequences when corporate ambition collides with public interest.

What You'll Find Inside:

• **The Evolution of a Utility Giant:** Trace SCANA's transformation from the Charleston Gas Light Company in 1846 to a multi-state energy provider, highlighting key mergers and technological adaptations.
• **The Ambition and Failure of V.C. Summer:** Understand the monumental effort and ultimate collapse of the V.C. Summer nuclear expansion, a project that cost billions and led to widespread scandal.
• **Nukegate and Its Fallout:** Explore the 'Nukegate' scandal, examining the public outrage, investigations, and allegations of mismanagement and deception that plagued SCANA's final years.
• **Legal and Financial Reckoning:** Delve into the extensive legal battles, shareholder lawsuits, and criminal convictions of top executives, revealing the severe consequences of the project's failure.
• **Lessons in Governance and Accountability:** Gain critical insights into the importance of transparency, robust corporate governance, and individual accountability for utilities in managing large-scale infrastructure projects and maintaining public trust.

Who's It For:

This book is essential for anyone interested in the history and complexities of the American energy sector, particularly those involved in utility regulation, corporate governance, and large-scale infrastructure development. It serves as a compelling case study for business students, legal professionals, and policymakers seeking to understand the critical interplay between corporate ambition, public trust, and accountability in a regulated industry. Energy enthusiasts and residents of South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia will also find valuable insights into the forces that shaped their regional energy landscape.