New York Seeks First New Nuclear Plant Decades

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed constructing the state's first new nuclear power plant in over 30 years, aiming to develop an advanced, zero-emission facility with a minimum capacity of one gigawatt in Upstate New York. This initiative is intended to boost clean energy production, increase energy independence, and support economic growth by attracting major manufacturers and creating thousands of construction and permanent jobs. Hochul emphasized the importance of modern nuclear technology with enhanced safety features and expressed commitment to working with the White House, including President Trump, to accelerate regulatory approval and project development. While the location has not been finalized, several Upstate communities have shown interest, with calls to consider sites like the closed NRG power plant in Dunkirk. The project marks a significant shift in New York's energy policy as it transitions away from fossil fuels, despite concerns about cost, safety, and nuclear waste voiced by critics. Hochul highlighted the urgency of overcoming bureaucratic delays in Washington to ensure the state's future energy needs are met reliably and affordably.