Welcome to energized.

• Author: Carlberg, Scott
• Position: THE CAROLINAS' NUCLEAR CLUSTER

If you are in the Carolinas reading this edition of ENERGIZED, and you have ample lighting and comfortable air conditioning or heat, chances are that you can thank a nuclear operator somewhere close by.

Our two investor-owned utilities operate plants that deliver a major portion of electricity from carbonless nuclear energy. Along with our engineering firms, industrial supply houses and educational institutions, they ensure that we have the smarts and parts to make our nuclear plants hum.

We have grown accustomed to that dependability.

Yet something is different as ENERGIZED gets published this year. This year's edition hits mailboxes as the nuclear energy industry demonstrates its positive impact across our two .states, yet nationally the industry has to address important challenges following announcements about several plant shutdowns that have some claiming nuclear energy is not good for America.

These challenges will require from Carolina nuclear professionals a more direct voice in the national debate about the energy source that tens of thousands of employees represent in our two states.

Standing tall about the industry makes sense for Carolinians. Consider the podium where we are. The Carolinas have a balanced energy portfolio approach, a smart way to manage risks in cost, supply and technology. We use nuclear energy as a major base load and are adding more as SCE&G ably moves ahead in new nuclear investments. The company is investing in gas, too. It plans for a 2019 balanced portfolio of 60% "nonemitting" sources. Duke Energy Corp. has made a national name with its approach to alternative generation. Its conservation programs create energy savers. North Carolina has been noted for its growth in solar energy and creation of clean energy jobs. Our...