Emerging Clean Energy Technology

We’re on track to achieve significant reductions in carbon emissions with the technology that exists today. But to get to net-zero, we'll need a variety of technologies that don't exist yet at the commercial scale.

That’s why we’re collaborating on research and development to advance these important innovations and advocating for effective policies to help ensure they are ready to deploy. Here are some technologies we’re watching closely.

Advanced nuclear

Advanced nuclear, including light-water Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and non-light water Advanced Reactors (ARs), are typically smaller than traditional nuclear plants and often modular. Demonstration of both SMRs and ARs in the U.S. is expected by 2030 with commercial deployment following by 2035.

Duke Energy has supported multiple advanced nuclear companies, including NuScale, Terrestrial Energy, Kairos Power and TerraPower, through participation on advisory boards and industry programs for more than five years.

Next-generation renewable energy

The industry is currently advancing solar energy by designing module and inverter upgrades to increase efficiency and generation. Wind technology is also advancing through the design of taller towers and bigger blades, as well as efforts to address reliability concerns, such as weatherization of equipment.

Duke Energy is actively engaged with the industry and public policy makers on the integration of advanced renewable energy that can further diversify its energy infrastructure, while meeting the needs of customers.

Hydrogen

Hydrogen and other low- or zero-carbon fuels can facilitate a long-term natural gas infrastructure transition. Many existing natural gas turbines can already co-fire hydrogen, for example, and future models could run on 100% hydrogen.

Cost-effective, low- or zero-carbon production and safe transportation methods are key to the development of these fuels.

Duke Energy is actively evaluating hydrogen and other low-carbon fuels through industry work groups and partnerships.

A pumped storage hydroelectric facility.

Energy storage

Long-duration energy storage includes a wide range of thermal, mechanical and chemical technologies capable of storing energy for days, weeks or even seasons.

These technologies are at various stages of maturity. Compressed air and pumped hydro systems are the most mature, but siting and cost challenges limit their deployment.

Duke Energy has actively deployed long duration storage since the 1970s and is currently monitoring and piloting multiple emerging technologies expected to be commercialized within 5 years.