Core Points - Duke Energy has submitted a final license application to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for the Bad Creek Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Station, aiming to extend its operations for an additional 50 years [1][4] - The Bad Creek facility, operational since 1991, serves as a significant energy storage solution, functioning as the largest "battery" in the company's system [2][7] - The company has recently completed upgrades to the Bad Creek facility, adding 320 megawatts of carbon-free energy, increasing its total capacity to 1,680 megawatts [4] Company Overview - Duke Energy, a Fortune 150 company, serves 8.6 million customers across multiple states, owning 55,100 megawatts of energy capacity [6] - Duke Energy Carolinas, a subsidiary, supplies electricity to 2.9 million customers across a 24,000-square-mile area in North and South Carolina [5] Industry Context - The extension of the Bad Creek facility aligns with South Carolina's energy infrastructure goals, supporting economic growth and ensuring reliable energy for communities [3][8] - The company is committed to a diverse energy portfolio, including natural gas, nuclear, renewables, and energy storage, as part of its ambitious energy transition strategy [9]