Upgrades add 320 megawatts to Bad Creek facility

Duke Energy believes upgrades at Oconee’s Bad Creek pumped storage facility are going to help meet increasing energy needs across the Carolinas.  The upgrades to the facility in Oconee’s northwest corner, Duke says, add 320 megawatts of carbon-free energy to its system and bring to 1,680 megawatts Bad Creek’s capacity.  The utility is working toward extending Bad Creek’s license.  It is currently to expire in 2027.  Additionally, the company says it is evaluating the need for a second Bad Creek powerhouse.