South Carolina State University (SC State) has officially opened a NuScale Energy Exploration (E2) Centre. This simulated control room mirrors the operation of a real advanced NPP, giving students the opportunity for immersive, hands-on training in nuclear systems and plant operations. The simulator is now fully installed and operational, allowing students in the university’s Nuclear Engineering Program to gain first-hand experience with technology used in the energy industry.
This is NuScale’s 10th E2 facility globally and joins a global network at leading universities across North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. E2 Centers are located at Idaho State University, Ohio State University, Oregon State University, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Texas A&M, University of Nevada-Las Vegas, University Politehnica of Bucharest, Ghana Atomic Commission, and
“As clean, reliable power demand grows, so does the need for skilled professionals. This facility will offer students practical experience, problem-solving skills, and the expertise to advance clean energy solutions,” said John Hopkins, NuScale President and CEO.
Alexander Conyers, President of SC State said the partnership “brings world-class tools to our campus … and underscores the vital role HBCUs (historically Black colleges and universities) play in driving innovation across the country. It also strengthens our pipeline for workforce development with partners like the Battelle Savannah River Alliance, preparing our students to lead in one of the nation’s most critical industries.”
SC State is the only institution in South Carolina, and the only historically Black college or university in the US, that offers a four-year degree in nuclear engineering.
Dr Frederick Evans, SC State Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs described the E2 centre as a game changer for SC State. “It will allow students to safely explore complex systems, gain hands-on experience, and develop critical thinking skills in a realistic, immersive environment. This kind of innovative training not only deepens understanding but also prepares students for the workforce and inspires the next generation of nuclear scientists and engineers.”
Dr Stanley Ihekweazu, dean of the College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Transportation, said the E2 Centre raises the bar for how students are trained. “It transforms how we prepare future engineers — moving beyond textbooks to immersive, industry-standard training. This kind of access not only strengthens our nuclear engineering programme but also empowers our students to lead in a field that is vital to our nation’s energy future.”
