Duke Energy has submitted a final license application to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) seeking approval to extend operations at its Bad Creek Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Station in Oconee County, South Carolina, for another 50 years. The current operating license is set to expire in July 2027, and the company expects a decision from FERC before that date.
The Bad Creek facility, which has been in operation since 1991, functions as the largest “battery” on Duke Energy’s system by storing and generating energy through the movement of water between two reservoirs at different elevations. This method provides a flexible and emission-free way to deliver large quantities of electricity during periods of high demand.
Duke Energy recently completed upgrades to all four units at Bad Creek, increasing its total capacity by 320 megawatts for a new total of 1,680 megawatts. These upgrades are part of broader efforts by the company to support nearly 860,000 retail electric customers across South Carolina as the state experiences significant economic growth and increased demand for reliable power.
The company consulted with more than 70 stakeholders while preparing its new license proposal. According to Duke Energy, maintaining proven facilities like Bad Creek and extending their operational lives is essential for supporting both economic development and grid reliability in South Carolina.
U.S. Rep. Sheri Biggs stated: “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, said: “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 owns 20,800 megawatts of capacity serving customers across North Carolina and South Carolina. Parent company Duke Energy serves approximately 8.6 million electric customers in six states and owns over 55,000 megawatts of energy capacity nationwide.
More information about Duke Energy’s activities can be found on their website (https://www.duke-energy.com/) or through their news center (https://news.duke-energy.com/).
