Duke Energy files to extend South Carolina pumped-storage hydro plant license

US utility Duke Energy Corp (NYSE:DUK) has filed its final license application with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to extend operations of its 1.7-GW Bad Creek Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Station in South Carolina by 50 years.

Located in Oconee County near Salem, the facility has acted as the largest “battery” on Duke’s system since 1991. Its current license expires in July 2027.

Last year, Duke Energy upgraded all four units at Bad Creek, increasing total capacity by 320 MW to 1,680 MW.

“Our commitment to maintaining a proven asset like Bad Creek for decades while adding diverse new generation reflects the energy future South Carolina’s leaders envision: reliable, affordable, and resilient,” said Tim Pearson, president of Duke Energy South Carolina.