Duke Energy has submitted an early site permit (ESP) application to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for a location near the Belews Creek Steam Station in Stokes County, North Carolina. This marks the company’s first use of the ESP process, which is intended to resolve environmental and safety concerns at the beginning of a potential nuclear project and confirm if a site is suitable for new nuclear generation.
The ESP process does not commit Duke Energy to building new reactors but provides regulatory clearance that could help avoid delays if construction proceeds later. The permit is technology neutral, allowing the company to consider six possible reactor designs—four small modular reactor types and two non-light-water designs—but does not include large light-water reactors like those currently operated by Duke Energy in the Carolinas.
“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.”
“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.
Duke Energy stated that obtaining an ESP would provide future options for customers and local communities. If further evaluation supports deploying small modular reactor technology at Belews Creek, Duke Energy plans to add 600 megawatts of advanced nuclear capacity by 2037, with initial operations targeted for 2036.
Duke Energy serves electric utility customers across six states and owns more than 55,000 megawatts of energy capacity. The company continues investing in grid upgrades and cleaner generation sources as part of its broader energy transition strategy. More information about Duke Energy’s plans for Stokes County can be found on their dedicated webpage at duke-energy.com/stokes.
