Company Spotlight -Westinghouse; Nuclear Titans

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The titans who electrified America are back in a big way. From the legendary "War of Currents" where George Westinghouse and Nikola Tesla battled Thomas Edison's DC power system, to today's nuclear renaissance, Westinghouse Electric Company has remained at the beating heart of energy innovation for over 138 years.

This episode takes you on a fascinating journey through Westinghouse's storied history and current technological breakthroughs. We unpack how Tesla, after leaving Edison over a promised but unpaid bonus, partnered with Westinghouse to develop the AC power system that would ultimately power the world. Their crowning achievement came in 1895 at Niagara Falls, where they built the first large-scale AC hydroelectric station, decisively ending the AC versus DC debate.

Fast forward to today, and Westinghouse's footprint in global energy is staggering. Nearly half of the world's 430 nuclear reactors run on their technology. Their flagship AP1000 reactor operates successfully in Georgia and China, while their compact EVinci "nuclear battery" aims to power remote communities by 2026. Most exciting is their revolutionary long-duration energy storage system that can provide 11+ hours of backup power—a game-changer for grid stability and renewable integration.

Despite navigating bankruptcy in 2017, Westinghouse has emerged stronger than ever, doubling profitability under new leadership and securing major contracts worldwide as countries seek to reduce dependence on Russian gas. From Poland to Bulgaria, China to Canada, Westinghouse is spearheading what many are calling the nuclear renaissance.

What's your take on nuclear power's role in our clean energy future? Share your thoughts and join us next episode as we continue exploring the frontiers of energy innovation.