Expanding Nuclear Energy Infrastructure: New York Plans to Construct a New Nuclear Power Plant to Align with Renewable Energy Objectives
In a significant move towards a clean energy future, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has directed the New York Power Authority (NYPA) to develop and construct a zero-emission advanced nuclear power plant in Upstate New York. This project, when operational, is expected to produce at least one gigawatt of electricity, sufficient to power approximately one million homes.
The initiative aligns with New York’s goals of achieving 70% renewable electricity by 2030 and a zero-emission electricity sector by 2040. The new nuclear plant will complement intermittent renewable energy sources like wind and solar by providing consistent, reliable nuclear power around the clock.
NYPA will conduct a comprehensive feasibility study to assess viable locations, technology options (including small modular reactors—SMRs), and financing structures. This strategic planning will be guided by a document called "Responsible Advanced Nuclear Energy Development in New York."
The facility, planned to be operational by 2040, will provide reliable, zero-emission baseload power, helping to stabilize the grid alongside renewable sources. As electricity demand rises due to electrification of buildings, industrial activity, and growth in electric vehicle use, the plant will play a crucial role in meeting New York’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and phasing out fossil fuel generation.
The project includes cooperation with private investors and may build on current projects, such as Constellation Energy’s early site permit at Nine Mile Point in Oswego County. There is potential regional collaboration with Ontario, Canada, which has nuclear expertise.
New York currently has about 3.3 gigawatts of nuclear capacity from existing plants. The addition of at least one gigawatt would raise nuclear capacity to around 4.3 gigawatts, making nuclear a larger part of the state's clean energy mix.
However, challenges remain, including cost, regulatory approval timelines, and whether the plant can meet the shorter-term renewable mandates due to the long construction period typical for nuclear plants.
Governor Hochul emphasizes the need for energy independence and supply chain security to ensure New York controls its energy future. The new nuclear development is part of New York State's plans to deactivate aging fossil fuel power generation and attract large manufacturers that create good-paying jobs.
In her statement, the Governor reiterated the need for "new, clean electricity resources to meet growing power demand from new industrial development, building electrification, and electric vehicles." The new nuclear plant is intended to provide reliable and affordable clean energy to advance the State's goal to achieve a clean energy economy.
The Governor's announcement follows plans announced by Hochul in January's 2025 State of the State presentation to explore the acceleration of advanced nuclear energy technologies. The Governor's goal is to secure key partnerships for the new nuclear energy facility.
[1] New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) - https://www.nyserda.ny.gov/ [2] New York Power Authority (NYPA) - https://www.nypa.gov/ [3] Department of Public Service (DPS) - https://dps.ny.gov/ [4] National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) - https://www.nrel.gov/
The new nuclear plant, under development by NYPA, will integrate advanced nuclear energy technologies and complement renewable sources like wind and solar, aligning it with New York's goal of achieving 70% renewable electricity by 2030. As part of the energy sector's transformation, the plant will make use of environmental science and technology to contribute to a clean energy economy, furthering the state's objective of deactivating fossil fuel power generation and attracting industrial development.
