Approximately $1 billion investment to boost LEU+ fuel production
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Westinghouse Electric Company (Westinghouse), a leading nuclear energy company, today announced it is expanding its Columbia Fuel Fabrication Facility in Hopkins to construct one of the most advanced nuclear fuel factories in the United States. The company’s approximately $1 billion investment will significantly boost commercial scale low enriched uranium plus (LEU+) fuel production.
LEU+ fuel has a higher level of uranium enrichment (5% to 8%), which increases reactor power output and lowers production costs by reducing refueling time. Through an industry partnership in 2025, Westinghouse achieved the first successful deployment of LEU+ fuel in the U.S. This new factory in Richland County represents a turning point to bringing this next-generation fuel industrywide.
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 Richland County facility produces fuel pellets, fuel rods, fuel assemblies and fuel components to support other Westinghouse manufacturing plants and a global base of customers.
As part of the expansion, Westinghouse will construct a new LEU+ facility at its existing Bluff Road campus, which will supply next-generation fuel with advanced equipment to support existing and new customers.
Construction is underway, and operations are expected to begin in 2030. Individuals interested in joining the Westinghouse team should visit the company’s careers page.
The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits related to the project.
Quotes
“Drawing on decades of our nuclear fuel expertise, we are advancing the next generation of nuclear fuel for the future. Our significant investment in this new fuel factory marks a transformative milestone for our company and the industry. By evolving our LEU+ operations, we’re securing a clean energy supply, strengthening energy independence and creating new opportunities in South Carolina. We are grateful for the U.S. Department of Energy’s invaluable support, which was key to reaching this historic achievement.” -Westinghouse President and CEO Dan Sumner
“South Carolina is already leading America’s nuclear renaissance, and this announcement further strengthens our commitment to help meet the clean energy needs of the future. Westinghouse has been a critical partner in this effort, and we look forward to it expanding its work in our state to create next-generation fuel products that will continue to support nuclear energy production well into the future.” -Gov. Henry McMaster
“Businesses like Westinghouse are propelling South Carolina forward in the advanced energy sector. The company’s $1 billion expansion in Richland County marks a significant step forward in our state’s capacity to strengthen national security and drive economic growth. With its legacy rooted here in the state, we are pleased to see Westinghouse amplify its capabilities and leadership in the industry.” -Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III
"Richland County has spent years laying the groundwork for investments like this one and we're grateful to Westinghouse for this historic expansion. 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.” -Richland County Council Chairwoman Jesica Mackey
Five Fast Facts
- Westinghouse Electric Company (Westinghouse) is expanding its operations in Richland County.
- The company’s approximately $1 billion investment will boost low enriched uranium plus (LEU+) fuel production.
- Westinghouse is a leading nuclear energy company.
- The company is located on Bluff Road in Hopkins, S.C.