SC’s energy future: A case for expanding nuclear power to meet demand

South Carolina has made considerable progress in strengthening its energy and transmission infrastructure, but much more remains to be done to secure a reliable, cost-effective and independent energy future.

A critical piece of this effort lies in expanding nuclear power, which offers the unique combination of low-carbon emissions, sustainability, 24/7 reliability, and long-term affordability.

This is why I fully support an “all-of-the-above” approach to energy, including the revitalization of the unfinished reactors at the V.C. Summer Nuclear Station, and commend the South Carolina’s state and congressional lawmakers for taking decisive steps to advance nuclear energy in our state.

Efforts to expand South Carolina’s clean energy portfolio have already incentivized energy-efficient practices, expanding nuclear capabilities, and attracted private-sector investment in emerging renewable energy.

Tax credits such as the Advanced Manufacturing Production Credit and the Advanced Energy Production Credit fuel business growth in the Palmetto State.

However, more work remains as our state’s energy demands are growing rapidly due to population increases and economic expansion.

State leaders and utility officials have been increasingly focused on the growth in demand for energy.

Our major utilities are already experiencing unprecedented load demand growth.

South Carolina’s population growth and accelerating economic development have caused utility planners to drastically increase their load growth forecasts, with electricity demand expected to surge over the next 15 years.

This demand growth will require an “all-of-the-above” increase in electricity generation capacity, including natural gas, renewables, and nuclear. It will also require a more streamlined approach to the planning and construction of new energy generation, regardless of the energy source.

To meet these challenges, South Carolina’s policymakers are now considering legislation that strengthens our energy sector, streamlines permitting and accelerates energy generation capacity.

Last month, the South Carolina House of Representatives passed H.3309, the South Carolina Energy Security Act, a bill prioritizing nuclear expansion as an energy source, alongside natural gas, hydrogen and renewables.

The state Senate will next debate this measure.

The Senate can develop legislation that balances reasonable permitting reforms with environmental protections, ensures appropriate regulatory oversight of the utilities while accelerating new energy generation, and prioritizes an “all-of-the-above” energy strategy that includes the expansion of nuclear energy.

Reviving the V.C. Summer nuclear project represents one of the most promising opportunities to meet South Carolina’s energy needs.

Sen. Lindsey Graham recently affirmed his support for nuclear power, stating, “We cannot give up on nuclear power … South Carolina needs as much power as we can get.”

His leadership and advocacy for small modular reactors (SMRs) highlight the potential of modern nuclear technology to supplement traditional reactors and provide scalable, efficient energy solutions for our state.

As Congress sets its legislative agenda, Graham and South Carolina’s delegation can prioritize continued support for policies that modernize the state’s energy infrastructure, revitalize manufacturing, and strengthen national security.

Sen. Tim Scott has also championed efforts to ensure nuclear energy can be deployed more efficiently.

His recently introduced Nuclear Permitting Reform bill takes a commonsense approach to cutting through the bureaucratic red tape that slows down nuclear project approvals.

By reducing unnecessary delays and modernizing regulations, this bill would pave the way for projects like V.C. Summer’s revival and the expansion of next-generation nuclear technology in South Carolina.

Beyond state efforts, federal investments are playing a crucial role in advancing energy security. The Inflation Reduction Act, passed in 2022, has provided South Carolina homes and businesses with key tax credits and incentives that help increase energy efficiency, promote solar energy, clean hydrogen and nuclear power production, and support offshore wind development.

Funding from that law has also fueled a resurgence in American manufacturing, leading to the announcement of 29 South Carolina projects promising to bring 16,500 jobs to the state.

Leveraging these resources, alongside nuclear expansion, will ensure South Carolina remains a leader in clean energy innovation.

Federal and state collaboration is crucial to ensuring South Carolina remains at the forefront of energy innovation.

The leadership shown by our congressional delegation and proactive efforts from our state Legislature put us in a strong position to secure our energy future.

However, the job is not yet done.

The state needs energy legislation that includes strong provisions for nuclear expansion and balanced permitting reform.