On 23 June governor Kathy Hochul directed the New York Power Authority (NYPA) to develop and construct a zero-emission advanced nuclear power plant in upstate New York ‘to support a reliable and affordable electric grid, while providing the necessary zero-emission electricity to achieve a clean energy economy’.
This follows on from other opportunities announced in governor Hochul’s 2025 State of the State to catalyse nuclear energy development in New York. “As New York State electrifies its economy, deactivates aging fossil fuel power generation and continues to attract large manufacturers that create good-paying jobs, we must embrace an energy policy of abundance that centres on energy independence and supply chain security to ensure New York controls its energy future,” governor Hochul said.
As a result of economic growth and fossil fuel power plant retirements, New York needs new, clean electricity resources to meet growing power demand from new industrial development, building electrification and electric vehicles.
NYPA, in co-ordination with the Department of Public Service, will seek to develop at least one new nuclear energy facility with a total capacity of no less than one GWe, either alone or in partnership with private entities.
NYPA will immediately begin evaluation of technologies, business models, and locations for this first nuclear power plant and will secure the key partnerships needed for the project. This process will include site and technology feasibility assessments as well as consideration of financing options.
The initiative also builds on the State’s ongoing financial support to Constellation to pursue an early site permitting process for a new project at its Nine Mile Point Clean Energy Centre and will allow for future collaboration with other states and Ontario, building on regional momentum to strengthen nuclear supply chains, share best practices, and support the responsible deployment of advanced nuclear technologies.
New York State AFL-CIO president Mario Cilento commented: “New York’s clean energy future depends on reviving and expanding nuclear power. Without it, emissions are rising, and grid reliability is at risk. We support governor Hochul’s vision of investing in nuclear energy to stabilise our power system and meet our climate goals.”
