In 2023, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) designated the SC Nexus for Advanced Resilient Energy (SC NEXUS) one of 31 Regional Technology and Innovation Hubs nationwide. Led by S.C. Commerce, SC NEXUS, a consortium of more than 50 members, aims to be a global leader in advanced resilient energy by developing, testing and deploying exportable electricity technologies tools.
In July 2024, the EDA awarded funding to four SC NEXUS projects to further build out the tech hub’s capacity to quickly commercialize new energy technologies, as well as raise awareness of advanced energy employment opportunities. SC NEXUS is one of only 12 tech hubs across the nation to receive the EDA’s implementation grant funds. Read S.C. Commerce's press release.
SC NEXUS leverages the region’s dynamic manufacturing base, superior research capabilities, and proven record of public-private collaboration to commercialize emerging energy storage materials and manufacturing techniques, as well as strengthen domestic manufacturing and national energy security.
Through SC NEXUS test beds and assets, we will leverage the region’s dynamic manufacturing base, superior research capabilities, and proven record of public-private collaboration to commercialize emerging energy storage materials and manufacturing techniques.
Led by University of South Carolina, this project will establish a stationary battery manufacturing pilot line in Columbia.
Led by Savannah River National Lab, this project will establish a cyber testing range for grid connected equipment, with both grid operator training and equipment testing benefits.
Led by Clemson University, this project will provide a one-of-a-kind 25 MW AC/DC grid emulation facility with mobile, in-field power and voltage testing capabilities for grid-connected equipment and microgrids.
Led by the SC Technical College System, this project will enhance awareness of South Carolina’s energy-focused industries and job opportunities, identify, and develop the skills necessary for success in these roles, and provide critical support services to ensure advanced energy workers have access to these opportunities.
Led by South Carolina Research Authority, this project will provide comprehensive business, technical and hands-on training, leverage and connect assets of existing entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem across the SC NEXUS hub, and deploy additional capital and incentives to support new and growing startups.
SC NEXUS will not be moving forward with the previously announced H2 test bed but remains committed to exploring a hydrogen-focused project. The test bed project is currently in redevelopment, and new information will be shared as it becomes available.
As SC NEXUS evolves, the consortium will seek additional federal funding opportunities to continue establishing new projects designed to test and rapidly commercialize advanced energy technologies.
A Tech Hubs Designation is a strong endorsement of the SC NEXUS region’s plan to supercharge a critical technology ecosystem and become a global innovation leader during the next decade, creating jobs and improving opportunities for South Carolinians while helping to secure the nation's economic and national security priorities.
Pursuing the Tech Hubs designation is in line with Governor Henry McMaster’s Executive Order 2023-18, designed to secure South Carolina’s energy future. Related efforts will complement and reinforce the work of powerSC, which the executive order established. Additionally, SC NEXUS has garnered support from South Carolina’s entire federal legislative delegation, as well as key leaders from the South Carolina House and Senate.
A public and private consortium led by S.C. Commerce, SC NEXUS currently consists of more than 50 members, including seven core members. In addition to S.C. Commerce, the initial, core members are Savannah River National Lab, Clemson University, South Carolina Council on Competitiveness (SC Competes), South Carolina State University, South Carolina Technical College System, and the University of South Carolina.
For consideration as a member of the SC NEXUS Consortium, please complete the Consortium Member Interest Form.
