#United States #Duke Energy #South Carolina #Greenville #Bad Creek

Duke Energy's Commitment to Bad Creek

Duke Energy has recently taken a decisive step in addressing the growing energy demands in the Carolinas by submitting a final license application to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). This application aims to extend the operations of its Bad Creek Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Station for an additional 50 years. Located near Salem, South Carolina, the Bad Creek station has been essential since its inception in 1991, serving as the largest 'battery' in Duke Energy's portfolio. It plays a critical role in storing and delivering energy efficiently.

The Importance of Bad Creek

Duke Energy's commitment to maintaining the Bad Creek facility reflects its strategy to meet the energy needs of nearly 860,000 retail customers in the area. This move highlights the company's recognition of the vital role that proven energy sources like Bad Creek play in supporting the state's growing economy. Recognizing that simply building new generation capacity is not enough, Duke Energy acknowledges the need to extend the lifes of reliable facilities like Bad Creek and its existing nuclear fleet.

Recent Upgrades to Enhance Capacity

In a demonstration of its commitment, Duke Energy recently completed significant upgrades to the four units within the Bad Creek facility. These upgrades have successfully added 320 megawatts of carbon-free energy to the grid, increasing the station's total capacity to a notable 1,680 megawatts. This boost reflects a broader strategy that aims to integrate more clean energy sources into the company's overall energy portfolio.

Stakeholder Engagement and Future Planning

Following consultations with over 70 stakeholders, Duke Energy intends to pursue a new operational license that would allow operations at Bad Creek to continue until 2077. The current license is set to expire in July 2027. Duke Energy anticipates that a decision from FERC regarding the license application will be made prior to the expiration date, ensuring a seamless transition in the plant's operational capacity.

What Officials Are Saying

Local leaders, including U.S. Representative Sheri Biggs, have expressed their support for Duke Energy's initiative, emphasizing the importance of Bad Creek to South Carolina's energy infrastructure. Biggs commented on the project as a cornerstone for economic progress, ensuring reliable energy for communities across the Upstate region.

Tim Pearson, President of Duke Energy South Carolina, also elaborates on the strategic significance of Bad Creek, describing it as a 'marvel in the mountain.' He articulated the company's vision for a diverse portfolio of new generation resources alongside proven assets like Bad Creek to ensure a reliable and affordable energy future.

About Duke Energy

Duke Energy is recognized as one of America's largest energy holding companies, serving around 8.6 million customers across multiple states. With an extensive portfolio that includes both electric and natural gas utilities, Duke Energy remains committed to clean energy transitions, focusing heavily on improving grid reliability and investing in cleaner generation methods.

As the energy landscape evolves, Duke Energy's extension plans for Bad Creek signify a crucial step toward advancing its objectives for sustainable energy supply, all the while supporting economic growth in the Carolinas.

For updates on the company's initiatives and news, visit Duke Energy's official website.