Nick Caldwell, Commissioner
When I decided to run for commissioner, I saw the position as one that would utilize my professional talents and allow me to serve the citizens of Easley, the town in which I was reared and chose to raise our children. My early years on the Commission were focused on rate stabilization, assuring that our utility rates were competitive and feasible for our citizens. In recent years, the City of Easley and surrounding areas have experienced unprecedented growth, and although we at Easley Combined planned for this growth, it has exceeded expectations.
What is something that you wish customers knew about Easley Combined Utilities?
I’m not sure that most customers view the employees of Easley Combined Utilities as civil servants. We all witnessed the dedication and resolve of the line working crews during Hurricane Helene in 2024; there was no utility company better than ours. What was not seen by the citizens of Easley was the support and work of those behind the scenes. I often hear our employees speak of a family atmosphere when describing ECU: there is no truer word to describe our organization better than family.
What do you consider the biggest “win” for ECU during your time as a commissioner?
The City of Easley obtains power from the Piedmont Municipal Power Agency (PMPA). PMPA owns 25% of the Catawba Nuclear Station Unit 2 facility and supplies ten upstate cities with energy, of which Easley is one. Over the last several years we as a Commission have worked on and are securing energy for the city until 2063.
Easley is seeing an incredible amount of growth. How have previous projections – and associated planning – enabled ECU to meet the
needs of our community?
We maintain a close partnership with the City of Easley, sharing information regarding expected and forecasted growth. Energy and water distribution are well-positioned for growth. To ensure there is waste treatment capacity to accommodate future growth, we have increased capacity at our largest facility, Middle Branch, as well as purchased additional waste treatment capacity from a neighboring treatment facility.
You have a rare Saturday in Easley without anything on the calendar. How do you spend it?
On a Saturday with nothing on my calendar, you will find me working in my yard.
About Nick
Nick and his wife Floride have been married since 1986 and have four grown daughters. They welcomed their first two grandchildren in late 2024, and life is good.
864-855-6871