The Carolinas Nuclear Cluster: how it all began.

• Author: Carlberg, Scott

The Carolinas' Nuclear Cluster coalesced around a major strength: Carolinians are world leaders in the design, construction and supply of electricity from nuclear energy.

The Carolinas supply 11.5% of the nation's nuclear energy. Our states are home to significant publicly traded power generating firms and major energy engineering firms. Currently, North Carolina has five nuclear reactors in operation, 32% of the state's total electricity generation. South Carolina has seven operating reactors, 52% of the state's total electric generation, and two new units in construction.

Energy supply, economics and environmental issues align in an energy imperative. The Carolinas have a unique competitive advantage in an industry that provides a carbonless path for base load electric needs--nuclear energy.

The Carolinas are a go-to source for a global nuclear expertise. We are reinforcing that status through the Carolinas' Nuclear Cluster.

THE CLUSTER CONCEPT

The South Carolina Council on Competiveness, better known as New Carolina, began a process in 2003 to build "clusters" as a way to increase the income of our citizens and strengthen our economic base. The Carolinas' Nuclear Cluster works under that umbrella.

What is a Cluster? A cluster is a group of businesses in a region that focus on a specific industry. Silicon Valley is an example for computers. Napa Valley is an example for wine.

The Carolinas have nuclear enemy.

Companies within clusters come together to increase efficiency and innovation within that industry, boosting the overall economy in the region. They do this by supporting new business development, enhancing existing business, recruiting new companies to an area, and helping companies within the cluster identify workforce needs and marketing strategies.

Good clusters have an inherent upstream and downstream value chain. Well-run clusters spur corporate and educational innovation. They are a forum to support industry issues. Robust clusters lead to strong industry collaboration, gains in efficiency and a stronger presence in the market.

The Carolinas' Nuclear Cluster is a robust organization.

HOW IT BEGAN

Since 2003, New Carolina built a track record of successful cluster start-ups in areas such as automotive, tourism, advanced security and insurance technology. New Carolina paved the way to define and start industry clusters in South Carolina.

That success drew the attention of nuclear energy professionals in the Carolinas. They...