Duke Energy, a prominent US-based nuclear energy firm, is making significant strides in the nuclear sector by submitting an Early Site Permit (ESP) application to the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). This application concerns a location near the Belews Creek Steam Station in Stokes County, North Carolina. This move comes after two years of extensive technical work and environmental assessments, indicating Duke Energy’s commitment to advancing nuclear power development responsibly and sustainably.
Strategic Focus on SMRs
The early site permit process allows companies like Duke Energy to clarify site-related issues irrespective of a designated reactor design. This is crucial for project flexibility and future planning. Duke Energy’s application is notably technology-neutral, affording them the luxury of selecting an appropriate reactor technology later on.
The current application includes comprehensive data for six potential reactor technologies: four small modular reactors (SMR) and two non-light-water designs. Importantly, large-scale light-water reactors similar to those currently operating in Duke’s fleet are not included in this scope. This focus showcases a strategic pivot towards more innovative and manageable nuclear technologies.
Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy’s North Carolina president, elaborated on the significance of this submission, emphasizing that it serves as a formal step in determining whether the Belews Creek site can effectively support SMR technology. He asserted, “Having an approved permit reduces the risk of delays during licensing and construction if the company decides to build new nuclear units.”
The ESP acts as a legal framework that remains valid for up to 20 years, providing Duke Energy with the opportunity to strategize future energy options without making immediate construction commitments. This ensures that they can adapt to evolving energy demands while maintaining flexibility in their operational plans.
Timeline for Capacity Expansion
In alignment with its ambitions for site development, Duke Energy has mapped out a tentative timeline for potential capacity expansion at the Belews Creek site. Should further assessments confirm the suitability of SMR technology, the company anticipates adding 600 megawatts of advanced nuclear capacity to its system by 2037. According to current projections, the first small modular reactor is expected to go online in 2036.
As articulated in a recent press release, Duke Energy is committed to adding this significant capacity increment, with plans firmly set in next-generation nuclear technology. Chief Nuclear Officer Kelvin Henderson highlighted that this strategy allows the company to mitigate risks associated with the adoption of new technologies while preparing for anticipated future energy demands.
Extended Operations for Oconee Nuclear Station
In a related regulatory achievement, the NRC has granted a 20-year license renewal for the Oconee Nuclear Station situated in South Carolina. This landmark decision extends the operational lifespan of the facility well into the 2050s, marking a crucial milestone for Duke Energy’s nuclear operations.
The Oconee station stands as Duke Energy’s largest nuclear power facility, housing three pressurized water reactors that collectively deliver a capacity of 2,554 megawatts. This facility plays a vital role in supplying base-load power to the region, enough to serve approximately 1.9 million homes.
The recent integration of the Oconee license renewal with the new site permit application highlights Duke Energy’s strategic approach to managing its nuclear infrastructure. This ensures the continued provision of the thermal energy necessary for stable, long-term power generation, aligning with both regulatory expectations and the growing demand for clean energy alternatives.