The North Carolina Utilities Commission rejected Duke Energy’s proposal for a $584 million natural gas turbine at the Smith Energy Complex. Regulators questioned if projected electricity demand from anticipated data center growth would materialize in Richmond County.
Officials expressed doubt that the gas turbine represents the most cost-effective solution for grid reliability. The commission suggested Duke Energy evaluate alternatives such as battery storage for the proposed peaker plant.
Duke Energy is evaluating next steps following the decision. The commission allows Duke to refile the proposal if it addresses cost concerns and demonstrates the project’s necessity over other alternatives.