#United States #Nuclear Energy #Santee Cooper #V.C. Summer #Moncks Corner

Santee Cooper Invites Proposals for V.C. Summer Nuclear Expansion

In a significant move reflecting the national interest in nuclear energy, Santee Cooper has initiated a Request for Proposal (RFP) process aimed at acquiring and completing two partially constructed generating units at the V.C. Summer Nuclear Station. The RFP, announced on January 22, 2025, seeks capable parties interested in either finishing the existing project or proposing alternative developments for the site, located in Jenkinsville, South Carolina.

Santee Cooper's decision comes amid a surge in electricity consumption driven by advanced manufacturing and increasing data center demands. The utility is uniquely positioned with the capability to potentially deliver 2,200 megawatts of nuclear power on an expedited timetable, utilizing advanced AP1000 technology similar to that employed by Southern Company at Plant Vogtle.

Background and Context

After extensive delays and eventual bankruptcy of its contractor, Santee Cooper halted construction of Units 2 and 3 back in July 2017. Following the abandonment of the project, the ownership was consolidated under Santee Cooper when its majority owner, SCEG (now known as Dominion Energy South Carolina), transferred its interests in the assets in 2018. Despite previous setbacks, Santee Cooper's leadership, including President and CEO Jimmy Staton, sees a fresh opportunity to explore the viability of these nuclear assets.

“Renewed interest in nuclear energy is partly fueled by the tech industry's push toward zero-carbon options,” Staton remarked. “Given the long construction timelines typically associated with nuclear plants, we believe that exploring options for Summer Units 2 and 3 could help us realize quicker delivery of reliable, carbon-free energy.”

This RFP is not just a search for partnerships; it's a strategic move influenced by a confluence of factors that highlight the urgent need for new generating capacity across the U.S. The growing onshoring of advanced manufacturing jobs and the retirement of older fossil fuel plants create a perfect storm incentivizing such developments. Federal initiatives that provide tax credits and financing options further facilitate this pursuit, creating an appealing landscape for interested parties.

Key Selling Points of V.C. Summer Project

1. Capacity and Technology: The site is poised to utilize cutting-edge AP1000 technology, aligning with the contemporary energy paradigm that emphasizes efficiency and lower emissions.
2. Timeliness: The unique situation where the plant is already partially constructed allows for potentially accelerated execution.
3. Strategic Location: The project benefits from its location within a nuclear security zone intended for multiple units and features existing infrastructure that can accommodate significant power output.
4. Critical Infrastructure: Enhanced land, water, and transmitted upgrade facilities are in place, which can support the anticipated energy production.

Santee Cooper's leadership highlighted the importance of this endeavor for South Carolina, emphasizing a broader impact that extends beyond utilities. By attracting a partner to complete the nuclear expansion, Santee Cooper hopes to stimulate economic growth and offer enhanced energy reliability to 2 million residents it serves. Staton expressed optimism, stating, “This process could help identify a suitable entity that shares our vision and commitment to delivering value to South Carolinians.”

Conclusion

As Santee Cooper navigates through the RFP process, responses are expected to be submitted by May 5, 2025. The utility's efforts represent a critical pivot towards modern nuclear energy infrastructure, an initiative that might spark renewed interest and investment in similar projects across the United States. With nuclear energy once again in the public conversation, Santee Cooper is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future energy landscape.

For more information about the RFP and Santee Cooper's initiatives, please visit Santee Cooper's website and follow them on social media via #PoweringSC.