USC to launch Nuclear Innovation Center

As South Carolina’s population and economy continue to grow, the expansion of secure and affordable energy solutions is critical to the state’s future prosperity. With renewed federal investment and private-sector leadership from companies such as Westinghouse, the United States is poised for a nuclear energy resurgence. The University of South Carolina is well positioned to play an integral role in advancing nuclear energy solutions that will power South Carolina’s growth and strengthen America’s energy future.

To this end, USC’s Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing will establish the Nuclear Innovation Center as part of its emerging Engineering District in Columbia. The center will position South Carolina as a national leader in applied research, advanced construction and manufacturing methods, nuclear workforce development and the digital economy, attracting innovation, investment, high-growth companies and corporate headquarters to the state. By creating a model for developing the skilled talent and technology infrastructure required by the rapidly expanding nuclear energy industry, the center will strengthen South Carolina’s ability to compete for the next generation of nuclear and technology-driven economic development. Matched by private investment, USC is requesting $100 million in state funding to support the project as part of its next budget request.

Through partnerships with private industry, federal agencies and the South Carolina Technical College System, USC is preparing to serve as a state and national hub for developing the workforce critical to supporting America’s next-generation nuclear energy ecosystem. These partnerships will expand the pipeline of technicians, engineers and specialized construction and service professionals and operators needed to support technologies ranging from large-scale nuclear reactors to deployable small modular reactors and microreactors.

In addition to helping meet South Carolina’s future energy needs, this initiative has the potential to generate substantial economic benefits for the state and region through the creation of high-paying jobs and new industry investment. With established strengths in engineering education and nuclear research, a network of statewide technical college and industry partners, and a commitment to developing the workforce of the future, USC is uniquely positioned to lead this effort.