Columbia Water officials discuss future water needs and industrial growth with lawmakers

On April 3, 2025, the South Carolina Legislature convened a meeting of the Surface Water Study Committee, focusing on the state's water resources and infrastructure. The discussions highlighted the critical importance of maintaining safe drinking water and effective wastewater treatment, which are essential for public health and economic growth in South Carolina.

A representative from the Municipal Association of South Carolina emphasized that the state's water supply must be pure enough for uses as sensitive as baby formula preparation and sufficient for industrial needs, including firefighting. The speaker noted that South Carolina has a robust infrastructure for wastewater management, developed over more than a century, which plays a vital role in protecting the environment and supporting the quality of life for residents.

The committee was informed that while South Carolina currently has adequate water resources for the next 50 years under various growth scenarios, there are concerns about the allocation of water rights. The existing surface water withdrawal law, enacted in 2011, allows water utilities to secure permits based on future needs, which can lead to an over-allocation of water on paper. This situation raises questions about the actual availability of water for new industries, particularly those with high water demands, such as data centers.

The speaker proposed a collaborative framework for existing water permit holders to voluntarily adjust their allocations to accommodate new users. This approach, already successful in wastewater management, could help balance the needs of current and future water users without compromising the state's water supply.

Committee members engaged in discussions about the implications of these water management strategies, particularly in light of potential industrial developments that could significantly increase water demand. The representative reassured the committee that, despite the theoretical over-allocation, historical water usage trends suggest that the state is well-positioned to meet its water needs for the foreseeable future.

As the meeting concluded, the importance of proactive water policy was underscored, with a call for continued collaboration among stakeholders to ensure sustainable water management practices. The committee's ongoing discussions will likely shape the future of water resource management in South Carolina, addressing both current needs and long-term planning for growth.