Duke Energy Files 2026 Carolinas Resource Plan With 18.5 GW Solar Target

Duke Energy filed its 2026 Carolinas Resource Plan with the Public Service Commission of South Carolina, outlining a recommended portfolio of supply-side additions over the next 15 years. The plan includes 18.5 GW of new solar, 14 GW of gas generation and 13 GW of energy storage.

Duke told regulators that its dual state service territory "continues to experience significant growth, with both South Carolina and North Carolina ranking among the fastest-growing states in the nation." The utility said its base planning forecast projects winter peak demand to increase by more than 10 GW, representing cumulative growth of approximately 30%.

Generation mix details

The recommended portfolio also calls for about 4.5 GW of new nuclear, which Duke described as an "important resource to support long-term reliability and system needs." The utility is working to extend operating licenses of its existing nuclear fleet to run up to 80 years, and said it has received subsequent renewed operating licenses for two of its six nuclear sites, both in South Carolina, covering four of the fleet's 11 units.

Gas additions through 2041 will include 8.2 GW of combined cycle generators and 5.8 GW of combustion turbines. Duke said it has received approval for a 1.4 GW combined cycle facility in Anderson County, South Carolina, and has executed turbine supply agreements with GE Vernova.

On storage, Duke said it is scaling battery execution and has issued an RFP for 400 MW of standalone storage in South Carolina. The plan also maintains a minimum annual energy efficiency savings target of 1% in Duke's load forecast.

What's next

The South Carolina PSC is expected to hold a hearing on the resource plan in April and issue an order by June, according to Duke.