COLUMBIA, S.C. - The South Carolina State Senate announced a special committee on Thursday. The group is tasked with focussing on the future of energy in the Palmetto state. 

This comes as utility providers say they need more power than ever as data centers grow and coal-powered plants possibly close. 

According to the state, the South Carolina population has grown roughly 1.3 million over the last quarter-century, which means more homes and household appliances that consume power are needed. In addition, the committee says the popularity and growth of electric vehicles may also contribute to energy concerns.

“Growth is here, and much more is coming." Said Mike Callahan, Duke Energy South Carolina president. "We need a clear energy policy to plan for that growth.”

The committee was also formed after an overhaul bill passed by the House in March. However, some Senators feel the decision was rushed as it was approved in just over a month. The last time an overhaul bill was backed by utilities was 15 years ago.