SC H5283

Establishes the South Carolina Utility Citizens Council as a 15-member independent advisory body to the Public Service Commission, representing low-income households, small businesses, seniors, renters, environmental justice organizations, and consumer protection groups.

Requires the council to review utility rate filings, energy efficiency programs, disconnection policies, and infrastructure projects, and to submit annual energy affordability reports with utility scorecards to the commission and General Assembly by December 31 each year.

Funds the council through mandatory annual contributions from regulated utilities equal to 0.01% of gross revenues (capped at $1.5 million per utility), with $10,000 monthly civil penalties for late payment; the SC Energy Justice Coalition would provide staffing.

Grants the council intervenor status in commission proceedings, access to utility filings and confidential information under protective orders, and requires the commission to summarize council recommendations in final orders and respond in writing within 60 days.

Directs the council and Office of Regulatory Staff to develop statewide energy affordability metrics tracking energy burden by income, disconnection rates, arrearage balances, and efficiency program participation, with annual publication by the commission; effective January 1, 2027.