North Raleigh Today

Duke Energy has submitted a license renewal application to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for the Robinson Nuclear Plant. The application seeks to extend the plant's operations by 20 years. Located near Hartsville, South Carolina, the plant has been operational since 1971 and is central to Duke Energy's strategy of providing reliable and cost-effective electricity in the Carolinas. In 2004, the plant's license was extended to allow operations until 2030. If approved, the new license would extend the plant's operations until 2050.

Kelvin Henderson, Duke Energy's senior vice president and chief nuclear officer, stated, "Renewing Robinson’s operating license for a second time is a critical step in our commitment to providing reliable, always-on, cost-competitive power for our customers." The plant plays a crucial role in Duke Energy's energy mix, producing about 759 megawatts of carbon-free electricity and supplying over half of the power used by customers in the Carolinas.

According to Laura Basta, site vice president of the Robinson Nuclear Plant, "Though the first nuclear plant to enter commercial operation in the southeast, Robinson is a modernized plant fully prepared for operations into midcentury.” Around $1.7 billion has been invested in capital upgrades to enhance the plant's safety and efficiency.

The Robinson Nuclear Plant also supports the local economy by providing well-paying jobs and contributing to the local tax base. The federal nuclear production tax credit further incentivizes these plants to operate cost-effectively, reducing nuclear energy costs for customers.

Duke Energy's plans align with a broader effort to secure subsequent renewals for all 11 of its operational reactors, following the NRC's recent approval of license renewals for Oconee Nuclear Station in Seneca, South Carolina. The NRC's renewal process involves extensive analysis to confirm that a plant can safely operate during the extended period.

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