South Carolina, a state with a rich history in nuclear energy, is experiencing a significant resurgence in its interest in this clean and reliable power source. But unlike past motivations driven by a general need for baseload power or climate concerns, a new, powerful driver has emerged at the forefront: the insatiable energy demands of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The AI Hunger for Power
AI, particularly the training and operation of large language models and other complex computational systems, requires an unprecedented amount of electricity. Data centers, the physical hubs of AI, are proliferating across the nation, and South Carolina has become a prime location for these energy-intensive facilities. Companies like Google and Meta are pouring billions into data center development in the state, drawn by strategic locations and, historically, by reliable and relatively inexpensive power.
Reports indicate that AI data centers could account for a significant portion of future load growth, with some estimates suggesting they could demand as much as 1,000 megawatts by 2030 in some areas of South Carolina alone. This monumental increase in demand is putting immense pressure on existing grids and pushing utilities to seek out stable, high-capacity energy sources that can operate 24/7.
Nuclear Power: The AI Solution?
This is where nuclear power re-enters the conversation with renewed vigor. Unlike intermittent renewable sources like solar and wind, nuclear energy provides consistent, always-on power, making it ideally suited to meet the unwavering demands of AI workloads. Its high capacity and low carbon footprint also align with the sustainability goals of tech giants and government initiatives alike.
South Carolina’s utilities, including Duke Energy, Dominion Energy, and Santee Cooper, are actively exploring and, in some cases, pushing forward with plans for new nuclear generation. Duke Energy, for instance, has already secured a 20-year extension for its Oconee facility in South Carolina and is looking to deploy Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) within the coming decade. These SMRs are touted for their modular design, which promises shorter construction times, lower costs, and increased flexibility in siting.
The state’s political leadership is also firmly behind this nuclear resurgence. Governor Henry McMaster recently signed the South Carolina Energy Security Act, legislation designed to streamline regulatory review for energy projects and explicitly encourage the further development of nuclear energy, including advanced technologies and pilot programs for SMRs. The establishment of “The Nuclear Company” with its primary engineering and construction office in Columbia, and its focus on “fleet-scale deployment” leveraging AI-driven site selection and supply chain logistics, further underscores this commitment.
Challenges and Considerations
While the marriage of AI and nuclear power appears to be a logical solution to the energy crisis, it’s not without its challenges. The specter of past nuclear project overruns, such as the V.C. Summer plant, still looms in the collective memory of South Carolinians. Ensuring cost-effectiveness and timely delivery of new nuclear projects will be paramount to gaining public trust and avoiding further financial burdens on ratepayers.
Furthermore, the rapid increase in energy demand from data centers has already led to discussions about higher rates for large energy users to prevent the costs from being passed on to residential consumers. The debate over who should bear the burden of this new infrastructure, and how to ensure equitable energy access, will continue to be a critical aspect of South Carolina’s energy policy.
However, the sheer scale of AI’s energy requirements has undeniably placed nuclear power firmly back in the spotlight in South Carolina. As the state positions itself as a hub for technological innovation and economic growth, a reliable and clean energy supply is non-negotiable. For many, nuclear energy, with its ability to provide consistent, high-capacity power, is becoming the essential partner in powering the AI-driven future of the Palmetto State.