Duke Energy has announced its continued commitment to developing advanced nuclear technology through participation in a new U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) cost-share project. The DOE recently awarded a $400 million grant to the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) to support the deployment of GE Vernova Hitachi’s BWRX-300 small modular reactor (SMR) technology.
Duke Energy is collaborating with TVA and GE Vernova Hitachi as part of this initiative, which aims to advance a standard SMR design and share industry knowledge. This partnership is intended to help reduce costs and risks associated with deploying new nuclear technologies.
“Public-private partnerships accelerate technology development and reduce costs and risks for customers and investors,” said Harry Sideris, Duke Energy president and chief executive officer. “Our work with TVA and GE Vernova Hitachi will advance the BWRX-300, paving the way for future deployment of SMRs that strengthen grid reliability and support economic growth.”
The company stated that integrating SMRs into its energy mix could help maintain reliable service at lower costs while supporting economic prosperity. Duke Energy’s collaboration with TVA and GE Vernova Hitachi includes evaluating potential sites for SMR deployment, such as the Belews Creek site in North Carolina. The company plans to submit an early site permit application for this location to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission by the end of the year.
Duke Energy serves 8.6 million electric customers across six states—North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky—and owns 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity. Its natural gas utilities serve 1.7 million customers in five states.
The company continues investing in electric grid upgrades and cleaner generation sources as part of its broader energy transition strategy.
More information about the DOE grant and project teams can be found on the Department of Energy website.
For further details about Duke Energy’s operations or initiatives, visit duke-energy.com or follow their official social media channels.
