Governor Hochul Initiates Development of Zero-Emission Nuclear Power Plant in New York

Governor Hochul Directs New York Power Authority to Develop a Zero-Emission Advanced Nuclear Energy Technology Power Plant
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On June 23, 2025, Governor Kathy Hochul announced that she has instructed the New York Power Authority (NYPA) to develop and construct a zero-emission advanced nuclear power plant in Upstate New York. This initiative marks the first new nuclear power construction in the state in a generation and aims to enhance the reliability and affordability of the electric grid while contributing to New York’s transition to a clean energy economy.

“As New York State electrifies its economy and phases out aging fossil fuel power generation, we must adopt an energy policy that prioritizes energy independence and supply chain security,” said Governor Hochul. “This is the second time during my administration that I am calling on the New York Power Authority to lead a significant energy initiative. Just as it is accelerating the deployment of renewable energy and transmission, it will now safely and swiftly implement clean nuclear power for the benefit of all New Yorkers.”

With economic growth and the retirement of fossil fuel power plants, New York requires new, clean electricity sources to meet the rising power demands from industrial developments, building electrification, and electric vehicles. The advanced nuclear facility will complement the state’s ongoing renewable energy initiatives by providing zero-emission baseload power, thus supporting New York’s clean energy goals.

NYPA, in collaboration with the Department of Public Service (DPS), will aim to develop at least one nuclear energy facility with a combined capacity of no less than one gigawatt of electricity, either independently or in partnership with private entities. This facility will be instrumental in supporting the state’s electric grid and the needs of its residents and businesses.

The authority will promptly start evaluating technologies, business models, and potential sites for the new nuclear power plant. Key partnerships will be established for this project, which will include feasibility assessments of sites and technologies as well as financial considerations, in conjunction with studies from the master plan for Responsible Advanced Nuclear Development in New York, led by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and DPS. Candidate locations will be evaluated based on criteria such as public safety, community support, infrastructure compatibility, and the availability of skilled labor and land.

This initiative also builds on the state’s ongoing financial support for Constellation, which aims to pursue early site permitting for a new project at its Nine Mile Point Clean Energy Center. It opens avenues for future collaboration with other states and Ontario, thereby enhancing regional nuclear supply chains, sharing best practices, and responsibly deploying advanced nuclear technologies.

Justin E. Driscoll, President and CEO of NYPA, expressed his gratitude for Governor Hochul’s confidence in the authority, stating, “The Power Authority has consistently been called upon to take bold actions for the public good. We are eager to deliver on this impactful nuclear initiative for New Yorkers.”

Rory Christian, Chair of the New York State Public Service Commission and DPS CEO, stated, “We look forward to collaborating with NYPA on this important initiative to identify the significant potential of nuclear power in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, ensuring grid reliability, and complementing other innovative energy generation and storage technologies—all in a cost-effective manner.”

Doreen M. Harris, President and CEO of NYSERDA, added, “Advanced nuclear technology can diversify our energy resources and support New York’s goal of a growing economy with a reliable, zero-emission electricity system. We anticipate collaborating with NYPA and DPS to advance this project, which will deliver reliable, affordable energy while stimulating job creation and economic development.”

Leaders from various sectors, including labor unions and industry associations, voiced their support for the initiative. They emphasized the importance of nuclear energy in stabilizing the power grid, creating jobs, and meeting climate goals.

In summary, Governor Hochul’s directive to develop a zero-emission advanced nuclear power plant signifies a critical step in New York’s energy strategy, aiming to ensure a reliable and sustainable energy future for the state while addressing the growing demands of modern industry and consumers.