Westinghouse expanding Richland County operations

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Westinghouse is investing $131 million to expand operations in Richland County. 

The global supplier of nuclear technology is expanding its Westinghouse Columbia Fuel Fabrication Facility in Hopkins. The facility, operating since 1969, houses fuel manufacturing and marketing, product engineering, testing laboratories and contract administration.  

Approximately 10% of U.S. electricity comes from nuclear fuel manufactured at the facility, according to a news release from Richland County. 

The expansion will upgrade equipment and procedures and expand automation and digitalization to increase growth capacity as well as enhance pollution prevention systems and controls.   

“We believe this investment is a critical element of our long-term growth and risk reduction strategy to better serve and protect our customers, community and employees,” Michael Annacone, Westinghouse vice president of Columbia Fuel Operations, said in the release. “We are very grateful for the continued support of Richland County and the state of South Carolina in this effort and throughout our 52-year history in the region.” 

The project is expected to be completed by January 2026.  

“With its more than 50 years and 900 employees here, Westinghouse is a long-standing institution in Richland County's manufacturing landscape,” Richland County Council Chair Paul Livingston said. “Council is excited to see the company continue its success and growth in our community.”