News Summary

Duke Energy has appointed Tim Pearson as the new state president for South Carolina, effective November 1. Pearson replaces Mike Callahan, who has been promoted. With over a decade of government and policy experience, Pearson will oversee regulatory and government relations while advancing clean energy initiatives. His appointment comes amid Duke Energy’s leadership restructuring aimed at enhancing operational strategies and engagement in the region, particularly as the company commits to sustainability goals.

South Carolina

Duke Energy has officially named Tim Pearson as the new state president for South Carolina, taking on this role effective November 1. Pearson replaces Mike Callahan, who has been promoted to senior vice president and treasurer following the retirement of Karl Newlin.

At 42 years old, Pearson will be responsible for managing state and local regulatory and government relations throughout South Carolina. His role includes working closely with the corporate and regulatory strategy team to further legislative, rate, and regulatory initiatives in the state. Additionally, Pearson’s team will oversee community relations and infrastructure engagement for Duke Energy across South Carolina.

The appointment of Pearson comes as Duke Energy undergoes leadership restructuring aimed at enhancing its operational strategy. Chair and CEO Lynn Good expressed confidence in Pearson’s ability to tackle the challenges present in the utility industry within South Carolina, highlighting his relevant experience and skill set needed for the position.

Professional Background of Tim Pearson

Tim Pearson joined Duke Energy full-time in 2023, serving as the vice president of government affairs. Prior to that, he held positions as an advisor and consultant. With over a decade of experience in government and policy within South Carolina, Pearson has worked with multiple governors, giving him valuable insights into the political landscape of the state.

His professional experience is set to bring a fresh perspective to Duke Energy, particularly at a time when the company is focused on advancing its initiatives in clean energy and regulatory compliance.

Leadership Transition Details

Mike Callahan, the outgoing state president, has led Duke Energy’s South Carolina operations for the past five years. Callahan has also held various roles at Duke Energy since joining the company in 2002, including vice president of investor relations and director of regulated utilities forecasting. His leadership was notably recognized during the pandemic and in storm recovery efforts in the community.

Following Pearson’s appointment as state president, Tigerron “Tiger” Wells, the current state government affairs director, is set to take over Pearson’s previous role as vice president of government affairs. Meanwhile, Heather Shirley Smith, vice president of regulatory and policy, and Rick Jiran, vice president of government and community relations, will continue to report directly to Pearson in their current positions.

Duke Energy’s Operations and Initiatives

Duke Energy serves approximately 8.4 million customers across multiple states, including North Carolina and South Carolina. The company is committed to investing in clean energy initiatives, with ambitious goals to achieve net-zero methane emissions from its natural gas business by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions from electricity generation by 2050. This commitment reflects a broader industry trend toward sustainable energy solutions and regulatory compliance.

The strategic leadership changes at Duke Energy come at a crucial time as the company is looking to enhance its regulatory and community engagement strategies in South Carolina, ensuring it meets both customer needs and environmental goals. As Tim Pearson steps into his new role, he will play a pivotal part in shaping the future direction of Duke Energy in the region.

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