As lawmakers convene for the first regular session of the 126th South Carolina General Assembly, the state's energy future takes center stage. Meeting the demands of residential and industrial growth will be a key legislative priority, and the discussion around energy policy presents a crucial opportunity for bold, forward-thinking leadership.
Among the many options, new nuclear power stands out as a transformative solution to address South Carolina's energy challenges head-on. With the ability to deliver 24/7 carbon-free power, nuclear is uniquely positioned to meet growing energy needs, attract corporate investment and secure long-term economic stability.
South Carolina has a pivotal opportunity to lead the nation in energy innovation by championing this proven technology and embracing its potential for economic and environmental progress.
S.C. Sen. Tom Davis, joined by more than 35 co-sponsors in the Senate, has taken a vital step forward with the introduction of S.51. This joint resolution calls on state-owned utility Santee Cooper to issue a request for proposals to explore private-sector interest in restarting construction at the V.C. Summer nuclear site in Fairfield County.
This approach, backed by discussions among the governor's Nuclear Advisory Council, energy utilities and major energy users, could reinvigorate a critical asset in the state's energy portfolio.
Editorial: Yes to reviving VC Summer reactors. No to SC ratepayers footing the bill again.
Yes, nuclear is expensive. But innovative partnerships between public and private entities are demonstrating success in other states. At Three Mile Island in Pennsylvania and in Boydton, Virginia, private investments by Microsoft have reduced financial risks for ratepayers while delivering reliable energy solutions. Notably, Amazon recently announced $500 million in financing for advanced nuclear projects, alongside partnerships to build five gigawatts of new nuclear capacity by 2039. These examples highlight the potential for private-sector involvement to drive nuclear energy innovation in South Carolina.
To fully capitalize on this momentum, however, reforms at the federal level are essential. Current permitting processes are overly burdensome and have long delayed critical infrastructure projects, including nuclear facilities. Streamlining these processes would enable projects like V.C. Summer to move forward efficiently, reinforcing our energy grid and economic resilience.
U.S. Sens. Lindsey Graham and Tim Scott are steadfast advocates of federal permitting reform, and their leadership on this issue is timely and necessary. Simplifying permitting procedures is crucial to unlocking the full potential of new nuclear energy and ensuring the timely development of critical infrastructure.
New nuclear is not just an energy solution -- it is a cornerstone of national security. A robust domestic nuclear industry reduces reliance on foreign energy sources, enhances energy independence and strengthens our capacity to navigate global geopolitical challenges. Moreover, nuclear energy generates significant economic benefits, from job creation to the advancement of high-tech industries. By committing to this technology, South Carolina can secure its place at the forefront of energy innovation and reap the economic rewards of a thriving nuclear sector.
South Carolina has a proud history of embracing innovation and bold action to secure its future. Supporting new nuclear generation and advocating for federal permitting reforms will not only modernize the state's energy infrastructure but also affirm South Carolina's commitment to economic growth, environmental stewardship and national security.
The time to act is now. New nuclear is no longer just a vision for the future -- it is an urgent necessity. By seizing this moment, South Carolina can lead the way in energy innovation and ensure a prosperous, sustainable future for generations to come.
Nick Murray is the South Carolina director of Conservatives for Clean Energy.