Duke Energy has submitted an early site permit (ESP) application to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission for a potential new nuclear facility near the Belews Creek Steam Station in Stokes County, North Carolina. This marks the first time Duke Energy has pursued an ESP, which is designed to address environmental and site safety considerations at the outset of a project and confirm a location’s suitability for future nuclear generation.
The company said this step is part of its ongoing strategy to evaluate new nuclear options as it seeks to meet growing energy demands while managing costs and risks for both customers and investors. An approved ESP can help avoid delays in licensing and construction if Duke Energy decides 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 ESP application does not commit Duke Energy to a specific reactor technology but allows flexibility by including six possible reactor designs—four small modular reactors and two non-light-water designs. Large light-water reactors, similar to 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 Kelvin Henderson, Chief Nuclear Officer at Duke Energy.
Duke Energy emphasized that no decision has been made yet regarding construction of new nuclear units. However, securing an ESP would provide future options for customers and local communities. If further evaluation finds that small modular reactor technology at Belews Creek offers optimal value, Duke Energy plans to add 600 megawatts of advanced nuclear capacity by 2037, with initial operations targeted for 2036.
Duke Energy serves electric customers across six states—North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky—and owns over 55,000 megawatts of energy capacity. The company is investing in grid upgrades and cleaner generation sources as part of its broader energy transition strategy.
For more information about the project or frequently asked questions about energy developments in Stokes County, visit duke-energy.com/stokes.
