USA, New York: New York is preparing for a significant shift in its energy landscape as Governor Kathy Hochul moves to establish a “nuclear backbone” for the state. The ambitious plan aims to increase New York’s nuclear capacity to 8.4 GW, up from its current levels in Oswego and Warren counties. This expansion includes a 1 GW public-private partnership already in development, alongside a new initiative to implement an additional 4 GW of capacity.
A central element of this strategy is the adoption of small modular reactors (SMRs). Governor Hochul has championed these advanced facilities, describing them as a significant departure from older nuclear designs. To support this transition, the state is launching “Nuclear New York”, a specialised jobs programme designed to train residents to build and operate these next-generation plants.
However, the proposal faces substantial pushback. Critics and advocacy groups, such as Public Power NY, argue that nuclear energy is prohibitively expensive, with construction costs estimated at $5.3 B per gigawatt. They suggest that the state should instead invest in 15 GW of wind and solar capacity. Environmental advocates also raise safety concerns, citing potential health risks and calling for a focus on advanced geothermal energy instead.
Despite these objections, the Governor remains committed, citing the urgent need to meet skyrocketing electricity demand driven by data centres and advanced manufacturing. Industry leaders suggest that whilst initial costs are high, standardising SMR designs will eventually provide stable, long-term energy prices. As the state works toward a fully decarbonised grid by 2040, the plan now moves to the Public Service Commission for stakeholder input and regulatory refinement.
Source: Adirondack Daily Enterprise
