New nuclear power plants don’t make sense for South Carolina

Yahoo! News - Apr 26th, 2025
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South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster is advocating for a 'nuclear power renaissance' in the state, urging lawmakers to revive the failed V.C. Summer nuclear plant project. However, the proposal faces significant opposition due to the notorious history of the V.C. Summer debacle, which was abandoned after incurring massive debts and cost overruns. Experts highlight that no new nuclear plants are currently under construction in the U.S., and the advanced small modular reactors (SMRs) are still a decade away from being operational. Critics argue that the high costs and the unresolved issue of radioactive waste make nuclear power a risky investment, especially in light of previous scandals involving corporate misconduct and financial mismanagement.

A report by the Deloitte Research Center highlights that even if new nuclear projects are pursued, they would only meet a fraction of the projected increase in electricity demand, driven by data center growth and transportation electrification. Comparatively, renewable energy sources like solar panels with battery storage are currently the most cost-effective options for South Carolina. Utility officials and energy experts suggest diversifying the state's energy portfolio to include existing nuclear and gas plants, solar, hydroelectric power, and battery storage. As the state-owned utility Santee Cooper solicits proposals for the unfinished V.C. Summer reactors, skepticism abounds over the feasibility and economic viability of completing the project. The state's future energy strategy appears to lean towards renewable solutions as a pragmatic approach to meeting increasing electricity demand while avoiding past pitfalls.

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RATING

7.0
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article provides a detailed and largely accurate examination of the challenges facing nuclear power development in South Carolina, focusing on the financial, logistical, and environmental issues. Its strengths lie in its clear presentation of complex topics and its relevance to ongoing energy policy debates. The story effectively highlights the risks and past failures associated with nuclear projects, engaging readers with a topic of significant public interest.

However, the article's impact and engagement could be enhanced by incorporating a broader range of perspectives, particularly those in favor of nuclear energy, to provide a more balanced discussion. Additionally, greater transparency in sourcing and methodology would strengthen the credibility of certain claims. Overall, the article succeeds in raising important questions about the future of energy policy, but it could benefit from a more comprehensive exploration of the potential solutions and advancements in nuclear technology.

RATING DETAILS

8
Accuracy

The story is largely accurate, with its main claims about the V.C. Summer nuclear project and the challenges of nuclear power supported by documented facts. The article accurately reports on the V.C. Summer project's abandonment and the financial and legal repercussions that followed, including the bankruptcy of SCE&G and Westinghouse and the convictions of utility executives. The cost and timeline issues with Georgia's Vogtle plant are also correctly described, aligning with industry reports of significant delays and cost overruns.

However, some specific data points, such as the exact figures for nuclear construction costs and the Deloitte analysis on future nuclear power capacity, would benefit from direct sourcing to ensure precision. The article's claim about the current status of small modular reactors is consistent with industry views but would be strengthened by specific references to authoritative studies or reports.

Overall, the story provides a truthful and precise account of the issues surrounding nuclear power in South Carolina, with most claims verifiable through public records and industry analyses. The few areas needing additional verification do not significantly undermine the article's overall accuracy.

6
Balance

The article predominantly presents a critical view of nuclear power development in South Carolina, emphasizing the financial and logistical challenges associated with new nuclear plants. While it provides substantial evidence to support its stance, the article could benefit from a more balanced representation of perspectives.

For instance, the story could include viewpoints from proponents of nuclear energy who argue for its role in reducing carbon emissions and providing reliable baseload power. Additionally, the article mentions the potential of small modular reactors but does not explore the arguments for their development or the potential benefits they might offer.

By focusing mainly on the drawbacks and past failures of nuclear projects, the article may inadvertently convey a biased perspective. Including a broader range of viewpoints, particularly from industry experts or policymakers advocating for nuclear energy, would enhance the balance and depth of the discussion.

8
Clarity

The article is well-structured and presents its arguments in a logical flow, making it easy for readers to follow the discussion on nuclear power issues. The language is clear and straightforward, effectively conveying complex topics such as energy demand projections and construction cost comparisons.

The use of specific examples, such as the V.C. Summer and Vogtle projects, helps illustrate the broader challenges facing nuclear power development. These examples are presented in a manner that is accessible to a general audience, enhancing the article's overall clarity.

However, the article could improve by providing more context on certain technical terms, like small modular reactors, for readers who may not be familiar with the intricacies of nuclear energy technology. Overall, the article maintains a neutral tone and presents information in a way that is easy to comprehend.

7
Source quality

The article references credible sources such as the Deloitte Research Center, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association, and statements from industry executives like John Ketchum of NextEra Energy. These sources lend authority to the claims made about the challenges and costs associated with nuclear power.

However, the article does not cite specific studies or reports directly, which could enhance the credibility of certain claims, such as the detailed cost comparisons and future energy demand projections. The absence of direct attribution for some data points might leave readers questioning the origin of certain figures or analyses.

Overall, the use of recognized industry sources supports the article's reliability, but direct citations and a broader range of expert opinions would further bolster its credibility.

6
Transparency

The article provides a clear narrative on the issues surrounding nuclear power in South Carolina, but it lacks transparency in certain areas. For instance, while it discusses the financial and logistical challenges of nuclear projects, it does not explain the methodology behind some of the data points, such as the cost estimates for nuclear and gas-fired plants.

The article also does not disclose any potential conflicts of interest or biases in the sources it references. While it mentions the opinions of industry executives and research centers, it would benefit from clarifying the basis for these claims and whether there are any affiliations that might influence their perspectives.

By offering more context on the sources of its data and any potential biases, the article could improve its transparency and provide readers with a clearer understanding of the factors influencing its conclusions.

Sources

  1. https://www.greenvillebusinessmag.com/2025/01/02/518515/south-carolina-and-nuclear-power
  2. https://www.utilitydive.com/news/santee-cooper-wants-to-sell-its-unfinished-reactors-what-happens-next/742649/
  3. https://www.wltx.com/article/money/business/nuclear-energy-columbia-jobs-reactor-construction-usa/101-06469031-f629-4eed-8424-ecd7ffdeb2de
  4. https://investors.duke-energy.com/news/news-details/2025/Duke-Energys-largest-nuclear-plant-receives-approval-to-extend-operations-supports-growing-energy-demand-helps-keep-customer-costs-as-low-as-possible/default.aspx
  5. https://www.greenvillebusinessmag.com/2025/04/08/528735/duke-energy-s-largest-nuclear-plant-receives-approval-to-extend-operations