Westinghouse Electric Company, a leading nuclear energy company, is expanding operations at its Columbia Fuel Fabrication Facility in Richland County. Located off Bluff Road in Hopkins, the $1 billion investment will construct one of the most advanced nuclear fuel factories in the U.S—significantly boosting LEU+ fuel production.
LEU+ fuel (low enriched uranium plus) increases reactor power output and lowers production costs by reducing refueling time. Westinghouse achieved its first successful deployment of LEU+ fuel in the U.S. last year. President and CEO Dan Sumner says the expansion represents a transformative milestone for Westinghouse and the industry.
“Drawing on decades of our nuclear fuel expertise, we are advancing the next generation of nuclear fuel for the future. By evolving our LEU+ operations, we’re securing a clean energy supply, strengthening energy independence and creating new opportunities in South Carolina," Sumner said.
Richland County Councilwoman Jesica Mackey added the historic expansion is also a significant investment in the county's future.
"Beyond the significant investment that will strengthen our schools and local infrastructure, this new facility will move Lower Richland forward as one of the world’s leading providers of clean energy. Our workforce has supported this facility for generations, and this expansion ensures that we’ll continue to see high-paying jobs and economic stability for years to come," Mackey said.
Built in 1968, Westinghouse’s Columbia Fuel Fabrication Facility is one of the largest nuclear fuel plants in the world, generating fuel powering approximately 10% of U.S. electricity. The Hopkins facility produces fuel pellets, fuel rods, fuel assemblies and fuel components to support other Westinghouse manufacturing plants and a global base of customers.
Construction is underway, and operations are expected to begin in 2030. Anyone interested in joining the Westinghouse team should visit the company’s careers page.