USA, New York: Governor Kathy Hochul has ordered the New York State Power Authority (NYPA) to develop an advanced, emission-free nuclear power plant in New York. The initiative seeks to support a more reliable and affordable electric grid, in line with the state’s decarbonization and industrial growth goals.
Hochul emphasized that, with the closure of fossil fuel plants and growing energy demand, the advanced nuclear technology must be incorporated into the energy mix. In this regard, the plant will provide clean-based energy to complement intermittent renewable generation such as solar and wind.
NYPA will work together with the Department of Public Service (DPS) to evaluate technologies, business models and sites. The initial goal is to install a plant with a capacity of at least 1 GW. Selection criteria include safety, community support, available infrastructure and availability of skilled labor.
The project is connected to other regional projects including partnerships with Ontario and northeastern U.S. states to strengthen nuclear supply chains Private sector collaboration for plant development and operation is also under consideration. The strategy aligns with the NYSERDA and DPS-led Master Plan for Advanced Nuclear Development.
The Nine Mile Point Clean Energy Center may benefit from early permitting for new projects. Currently, New York’s three nuclear plants supply about 20 % of the state’s electricity and over 40 % of its carbon-free energy.
Economic and social impacts are key to the proposal. Business groups say new plants will create unionized, stable, well-paid jobs and attract energy-intensive industries like semiconductors and AI.
Governor Hochul stressed that state control of such infrastructure would boost New York’s energy independence, stabilize prices, and ensure supply in a volatile global landscape. A secure, carbon-free grid remains central to the state’s green economic transition.
Source: Inspenet
