Duke Energy’s Request for Taller Tower Approved

The Oconee County Board of Zoning Appeals unanimously approved Duke Energy’s request for a variance and special exception to install a new 310-foot communications tower on Rochester Highway in Seneca. The $2.1 million tower will exceed the 250-foot height restriction by 60 feet and is part of Duke Energy’s effort to enhance connectivity and support the county’s future growth and SmartGrid. The new tower, located on Duke’s 159.9-acre site near the Oconee Nuclear Station, will improve point-to-point connections and network performance, support emergency services, and provide potential leasing opportunities for future wireless carriers. Duke Energy’s application highlighted the tower’s role in advancing technology and reliability, with no community opposition reported.