SC Electric & Gas is being forced to close its Lexington office.
The Lexington-County based utility is suffering the impact of abandoning its $9 billion nuclear reactor project.
Officials said they are closing 8 other offices, too, in Barnwell, Florence, Johnston, Hampton, Holly Hill, Hollywood, Mt. Pleasant and Walterboro. 
The company said its ratepayers will continue to have alternate payment options in person at other SCE&G-authorized payment agencies, online and by mail.
Lower traffic and the need to cut operating and other costs led to the decision.
“With a network of authorized payment locations throughout the communities we serve, including all Walmart stores, we expect this transition to have a minimal impact on the level of service,” said SCE&G Vice President Sam Dozier. 
He said SCE&G will find jobs in the company for the 16 employees affected.
“We appreciate the contributions and the quality of service our employees have provided over the years,” Dozier said.
Customers can conduct business with SCE&G by going to www.sceg.com or calling customer service at 800-251-7234.