Duke Energy has submitted an early site permit (ESP) application to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission for a location near the Belews Creek Steam Station in Stokes County, North Carolina. This move marks the first time Duke Energy has pursued an ESP and is part of its strategy to explore new nuclear generation options to meet increasing energy demands while managing costs and risks for customers and investors.
The ESP process allows the NRC to address environmental and site safety issues before construction begins, confirming whether a site is suitable for future nuclear development. If approved, this permit would help reduce potential delays during licensing and construction should Duke Energy decide to proceed with building new nuclear units at the site.
“Nuclear energy has and will continue to play an essential role in powering communities in the Carolinas,” said Kendal Bowman, Duke Energy’s North Carolina president. “Submitting an early site permit application is an important next step in assessing the potential for small modular reactors at the Belews Creek site.”
The application is technology neutral, which means that Duke Energy does not have to choose a specific reactor design at this stage. The company included six possible reactor technologies: four small modular reactor designs and two non-light-water designs. Large light-water reactors, like those currently operated by Duke Energy in the Carolinas, are not part of this application.
“We’re taking a strategic approach to new nuclear development that allows us to advance licensing activities while reducing risks and allowing technologies to mature,” said Duke Energy Chief Nuclear Officer Kelvin Henderson.
Although no final decision has been made on constructing new nuclear units, obtaining an ESP gives Duke Energy more flexibility for future planning. If further studies confirm that small modular reactors at Belews Creek offer value for customers, Duke Energy aims to add 600 megawatts of advanced nuclear capacity by 2037, with initial operation targeted for 2036.
Duke Energy serves millions of electric and natural gas customers across several states including North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, and Tennessee. The company continues investing in grid upgrades and cleaner energy sources as part of its broader transition toward a more reliable and sustainable energy system.
For additional details about the project or answers to frequently asked questions regarding the proposed development at Belews Creek, information can be found on the company’s dedicated webpage: duke-energy.com/stokes.
