COLUMBIA, S.C. (Legal Newsline) - South Carolina Attorney General Henry McMaster announced on Monday that he has entered into an agreement with Duke Energy South Carolina over the company's 401 Water Quality Certification.

Under the agreement, Duke agrees to provide improved water quality and water flow through its dam system "in settlement of all issues raised by the Attorney General in this 401 Certification proceeding," while McMaster has withdrawn from the 401 Water Quality Certification case.

"Duke Energy's actions today will bring immediate benefit to South Carolinians and the Catawba River," McMaster said. "This agreement is a major step forward for business, recreation, and the health of our state."

Under terms of the settlement, Duke will provide a continuous flow through Wylie Dam, which it is currently not required to provide at its Lake Wylie Hydroelectric Development facility.

The company will also operate one or more existing units with dissolved oxygen capability during the low drought season from May 15-Oct. 31 to improve drought levels in the flow discharging from the system.

The settlement's requirements mean that Duke will improve water quality and quantity at its Lake Wylie Hydroelectric Development facility.