Duke Energy has submitted a final license application to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) seeking approval to extend operations at the Bad Creek Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Station near Salem, South Carolina, for another 50 years. The facility has been in service since 1991 and is considered the largest “battery” on Duke Energy’s system, storing and generating energy by moving water between two reservoirs at different elevations.
The company highlighted that this extension supports efforts by South Carolina leaders to address growth in the state by maintaining proven electricity capacity. The Bad Creek station plays a significant role in meeting demand for nearly 860,000 retail electric customers across South Carolina.
Duke Energy recently completed upgrades at Bad Creek, increasing its total capacity by 320 megawatts of carbon-free energy and bringing the plant’s output to 1,680 megawatts. This is part of ongoing investments to enhance generation capabilities and serve a growing customer base.
The current operating license for Bad Creek expires in July 2027. Duke Energy worked with more than 70 stakeholders during the proposal process for a new license that would last another five decades. A decision from FERC is expected before the existing license ends.
U.S. Rep. Sheri Biggs commented on the significance of Bad Creek: “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 and supplies electricity throughout North Carolina and South Carolina over an area covering 24,000 square miles.
Duke Energy serves about 8.6 million customers across several states including North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky. The company operates both electric utilities—collectively owning over 55 gigawatts—and natural gas utilities serving around 1.7 million customers in multiple states.
More information about Duke Energy can be found at duke-energy.com or through its news center.