Duke Energy has submitted a final license application to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) seeking to extend operations at its Bad Creek Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Station in Oconee County, South Carolina, for another 50 years. The facility, which began operating in 1991, is the largest pumped storage hydro station on Duke Energy’s system and serves as a key energy storage resource for the company.
Pumped storage hydro plants work by moving water between two reservoirs at different elevations to store and generate electricity as needed. This process allows large quantities of energy to be delivered flexibly and efficiently without emissions. Bad Creek’s role as a “battery” for Duke Energy has been vital in meeting customer demand across the region.
Recently, Duke Energy completed upgrades to all four units at Bad Creek, adding 320 megawatts of carbon-free capacity and increasing the station’s total output to 1,680 megawatts. These upgrades are part of broader efforts to maintain reliable service for nearly 860,000 retail electric customers in South Carolina and support economic growth in the state.
The company’s application comes as its current operating license is set to expire in July 2027. Duke Energy consulted with over 70 stakeholders before submitting the new license proposal, which would allow continued operation through mid-century. A decision from FERC is expected before the current license expires.
U.S. Rep. Sheri Biggs said, “Bad Creek is a cornerstone of South Carolina’s energy infrastructure and a testament to the kind of smart, long-term investment our state needs. I’m proud to support Duke Energy’s efforts to extend operations at this critical facility. This project will help power our communities, support economic growth, and ensure a reliable, affordable energy future for families and businesses across the Upstate.”
Tim Pearson, president of Duke Energy South Carolina, stated: “Extending the life of this ‘marvel in the mountain’ has been a significant part of our planning for the future for many years. Our commitment to keep a proven asset like Bad Creek online for decades to come while also bringing a diverse portfolio of new generating resources to the grid reflects the direction our state’s leaders have made clear is the right path forward to support a reliable, affordable and resilient energy future for South Carolina.”
Duke Energy Carolinas supplies electricity to about 2.9 million customers across North Carolina and South Carolina through its 20,800 megawatts of energy capacity within its service area.
Duke Energy operates as one of America’s largest energy holding companies with electric utilities serving more than eight million customers across six states. The company continues investing in grid modernization and cleaner generation sources including natural gas, nuclear power, renewables and storage technologies.
Further information can be found at duke-energy.com or through their social media channels.
