The chances of selling debt-ridden Santee Cooper don’t look good.

Lawmakers say they are frustrated that the #1 buyer has backed out.

The House will debate the Senate’s proposed reforms this week. The Senate voted 44-1 to go for reforms to the taxpayer-owned utility.

NextEra Energy, the power company lawmakers hoped would buy Santee Cooper, has asked for the return of its $25 million earnest money.

How the House will vote is anybody’s guess.

Rep. Micah Caskey of West Columbia says he would sell depending on getting the right terms.

“I wouldn’t sell my truck either without knowing what I’d get for it. Selling it has also been complicated by NextEra withdrawing.

“I’ve seen nothing from the Senate to indicate they can sell it, despite the best efforts of Sen. Shane Massey and other conservatives.”

Rep. Chris Wooten of Lexington said he is undecided.

“I am waiting to hear the final story,” Wooten said.

Rep. RJ May of Lexington thinks it should be sold.

“Government has no business in the energy sector.

“But, with NextEra backing out, I don’t see a path forward for selling.”

Rep. Chip Huggins of Irmo said Ways & Means Committee Chair Murrell Smith told him the House will work on revising some reforms and leave it open for a sale if anyone wants to make an offer.

We asked our Senate delegation how they voted.

Sen. Katrina Shealy of Lexington voted for reform as it was the best option left.

The other senators have not yet responded.