Duke Energy has announced its continued commitment to advanced nuclear development following the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) recent $400 million grant to the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). The funding aims to accelerate deployment of GE Vernova Hitachi’s BWRX-300 small modular reactor (SMR) technology.
Duke Energy is participating in TVA’s technology grant application, which supports its new nuclear strategy by collaborating with other utilities and technology providers. This partnership seeks to advance a standard technology design and leverage industry lessons, in line with Duke Energy’s goal to provide reliable, affordable, and carbon-free energy.
Harry Sideris, president and chief executive officer of Duke Energy, stated: “Public-private partnerships accelerate technology development and reduce costs and risks for customers and investors. Our work with TVA and GE Vernova Hitachi will advance the BWRX-300, paving the way for future deployment of SMRs that strengthen grid reliability and support economic growth.”
Duke Energy considers SMRs an important part of its diverse energy mix, supporting both economic prosperity and system reliability at a low cost for customers. The company is collaborating with TVA and GE Vernova Hitachi on near-term efforts to evaluate and partner within the industry on new nuclear generation. This includes possible SMR deployment at North Carolina’s Belews Creek site, where Duke Energy plans to submit an early site permit application to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission by year-end.
Further details about the DOE grant and project teams are available on the Department of Energy website.
Duke Energy serves 8.6 million electric customers across six states in the Southeast and Midwest United States, as well as 1.7 million natural gas customers. The company continues investing in electric grid upgrades, cleaner generation technologies—including natural gas, nuclear power, renewables—and energy storage solutions as part of its ongoing energy transition.
For more information about Duke Energy’s activities or recent developments, visit duke-energy.com or follow their social media channels.
