DUK · News · 20260905N

Nuclear Fleet Expansion

Duke Energy CORP · 2026-09-05 · Importance 28 · Surprise 42 · In source text

Duke Energy submitted an early site permit application to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission for a potential new nuclear project near its Belews Creek Steam Station in Stokes County, North Carolina. The technology-neutral application evaluates six reactor technologies, including small modular reactors and non-light-water designs. Duke is targeting 600 MW of potential new nuclear capacity by 2037, although the filing represents continued exploration rather than a final construction commitment.

Key facts

• Duke Energy has submitted an early site permit (ESP) application to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission for a potential new nuclear project near its Belews Creek Steam Station in Stokes County, N.C. source
• Duke Energy plans to bring 600 MW of new nuclear power online by 2037 as stated in the ESP application. source
• The ESP application is technology-neutral and proposes six potential reactor technologies including small modular reactors and non-light-water designs. source

Impact estimates