Advanced energy in South Carolina Powering what’s next — right now
South Carolina isn’t preparing for the future of energy. We’re building it.
Leading the future of advanced energy
From nuclear and hydrogen to battery storage and grid technologies, the state is emerging as a hub for advanced, resilient energy systems. Backed by significant investment and a rapidly expanding ecosystem, this is an industry scaling quickly and delivering real impact.
At the center of it all is SC NEXUS, a US Economic Development Administration-designated Tech Hub and one of just 12 in the nation. Through this initiative, more than 200 companies, research institutions and industry leaders are working together to develop, test and deploy next-generation energy solutions.
This is where innovation moves beyond theory.
With global leaders like Schneider Electric, GE Vernova and Westinghouse Electric Company anchoring the ecosystem, South Carolina is advancing technologies that strengthen grid resilience, support energy independence and meet the growing demand for reliable, scalable power.
And the trajectory is clear. The new energy economy is expected to create 14,000+ jobs in South Carolina by 2030, signaling not just growth, but long-term opportunity.
This isn’t a future state. It’s a system already in motion.
A powerful network of advanced energy leaders
SC NEXUS is advancing the future of energy
SC NEXUS is helping position South Carolina at the forefront of advanced, resilient energy technologies.
As a US Economic Development Administration-designated Tech Hub, SC NEXUS brings together industry leaders, research institutions, startups and public partners to accelerate the development, testing and commercialization of next-generation energy solutions.
From grid modernization and battery technologies to nuclear innovation and resilient infrastructure, SC NEXUS is strengthening the ecosystem companies need to grow, collaborate and move faster.
More than a program, it’s a statewide network built to support innovation, investment and long-term industry growth.
Why advanced energy thrives in South Carolina
South Carolina brings together the partners, infrastructure and industry expertise needed to move advanced energy technologies forward.
With a network of 50+ collaborators spanning public agencies, energy providers, research institutions, manufacturers and investors, the state is building an ecosystem designed to support innovation at scale — from development and testing to commercialization and deployment.
This connected approach helps companies:
- Develop specialized talent and workforce pipelines
- Connect with suppliers, research partners and investors
- Accelerate commercialization and speed to market
- Strengthen grid resilience and system reliability
- Access industry leaders, researchers and policymakers
- Utilize strategic testbeds and real-world research environments
South Carolina’s advanced energy ecosystem is built to move ideas from development to deployment
With more than 200 companies, national laboratories, research institutions and dedicated testbeds across the energy value chain, the state provides the infrastructure needed to develop, test and scale next-generation energy technologies in real-world environments.
Carolina Institute for Battery Innovation (CIBI)
A large-scale battery manufacturing pilot line at the University of South Carolina helping improve battery energy storage systems and advance battery component recycling.
The facility supports technologies critical to grid stability, renewable energy integration and the future of energy storage.
Economic Development through Grid Emulation (EDGE)
Led by Clemson University, this upgraded grid testing facility in North Charleston allows emerging technologies to be evaluated under real-world operating conditions.
From power distribution to grid management systems, companies can validate performance, reliability and regulatory readiness before deployment at scale.
Grid Enabled Cyber Operations Range (GECO)
Located at Savannah River National Laboratory, this cybersecurity proving ground helps companies test and secure next-generation grid technologies before they enter the market.
By validating supply chains and identifying vulnerabilities early, the facility helps strengthen energy resilience, operational security and national defense readiness.
Governor’s Nuclear Advisory Council (GNAC)
As part of our commitment to nuclear power, the Governor's Nuclear Advisory Council (GNAC) advises the Governor on issues pertaining to nuclear activities in South Carolina and other nuclear power-related initiatives.
PowerSC Energy Resources and Economic Development Interagency Working Group
As part of Executive Order 2023-18, PowerSC was formed to work with state energy stakeholders to develop strategic plans to ensure the power capacity required for record-breaking economic development and population growth.
Powering specialized workforce & talent
South Carolina is developing the talent pipeline needed to support the future of advanced energy.
Through partnerships spanning K-12 education, technical colleges, research institutions and industry, the state is creating workforce pathways aligned with the evolving needs of energy companies — from skilled trades and advanced manufacturing to engineering, cybersecurity and emerging technologies.
Built here. Grown here. Thriving here.
“Cleantech is a growing manufacturing opportunity for our country, and Mojave is in a unique position to create US jobs while significantly lowering its customers’ energy expenses and climate impact. We appreciate the support of the Department of Energy, the state of South Carolina and Anderson County to help us bring this important technology to market."
Dr. Phil Farese, CEO of Mojave Energy Systems
SC NEXUS and SCRA announce Entrepreneurship and Innovation Exchange project launch
New program supports South Carolina's energy ecosystem through entrepreneurial training
SC NEXUS Tech Hub Names First Executive Director
The SC Nexus for Advanced Resilient Energy (SC NEXUS), South Carolina’s Regional Technology and Innovation Hub (Tech Hub), named Cristina Paredes the tech hub’s inaugural executive director Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024. An accomplished economic development professional, Paredes brings over two decades of experience in leadership and consulting to the advanced resilient energy consortium.
SC Nexus Officials Welcome U.S. Economic Development Administration for Tech Hubs Tour
On Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, S.C. Commerce and SC Nexus leadership welcomed Acting Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Cristina Killingsworth and other U.S. Economic Development Administration staff to South Carolina for a multi-city junket as part of the federal agency’s “Great American Tech Hubs Tour.”
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