The license, which will come into effect from 01 September 2016, will allow Duke Energy to operate the Jocassee pumped storage hydro station Keowee hydro station and associated lakes.
In 2014, Duke Energy had submitted application for extension of operating license of the hydro project, which was licensed in 1966 for 50 years.
The license approval follows the assessment of the impact of its operation during the next license term. The application includes a relicensing agreement signed with 16 other stakeholders.
Duke Energy water strategy, hydro licensing and lake services vice-president Steve Jester said: "The project provides clean, renewable hydroelectric power generation, supports regional public drinking water needs and provides high-quality recreational opportunities for the region.
"This license ensures the availability of these resources for future generations."
The license renewal also includes a new agreement for operating the station, where Duke Energy negotiated with the Army Corps of Engineers and the Southeastern Power Administration.
The Keowee-Toxaway project, which begins with Lake Jocassee in North Carolina and South Carolina, comprises two reservoirs with two powerhouses.
The lake flows into Lake Keowee and reaches the Army Corps of Engineer’s Lake Hartwell project. The reservoirs provide cooling water for the 2.5GW Oconee nuclear station.
Image: The Keowee-Toxaway hydro project begins with Lake Jocassee in North Carolina and South Carolina. Photo: courtesy of Duke Energy Corporation.
