S.C. Code Ann. § 58-27-1730: Investigation and hearing as to value of issue of securities; certificate of authority.

The Office of Regulatory Staff must thereupon make an investigation as may be necessary, at which investigation the electrical utility is entitled to be heard before the commission. The commission must determine whether the purpose of the issue is proper, value the property or services, if any, to be acquired by the issue, and find and determine the amount of such securities reasonably necessary for the purpose for which they are to be issued. To the extent that the commission approves the proposed issue, it must grant to the electrical utility a certificate of authority stating:

(1) the amount of the securities reasonably necessary for the purpose for which they are to be issued and the character of the securities; and

(2) the value of any property or services, if any, to be acquired thereby. Nothing herein contained shall be construed to impose or imply any guaranty or obligation as to the securities on the part of the State or any agency thereof, nor shall the commission, by virtue of the approval of the issuance of such securities, be deemed to be required to prescribe or approve any rate for the reason that such rate may be necessary to provide funds reasonably sufficient to retire such securities or the interest thereon.