Zero-emission nuclear power plant to be built upstate NYS. NYPA will begin evaluation of technologies, business models, and locations for this first nuclear power plant and will coordinate partnerships needed for the project. This process will include site and technology feasibility assessments as well as consideration of financing options.
“As New York State electrifies its economy, deactivates aging fossil fuel power generation and continues to attract large manufacturers that create good-paying jobs, we must embrace an energy policy of abundance that centers on energy independence and supply chain security to ensure New York controls its energy future,” Governor Hochul said. “This is the second time during my administration that I am calling on the New York Power Authority to lead a critical energy initiative, and just as it is doing with the expedited build-out of renewable energy and transmission, it will now safely and rapidly deploy clean, reliable nuclear power for the benefit of all New Yorker’s.”
As a result of economic growth and fossil fuel power plant retirements, New York needs to plan clean electricity resources to meet growing power demand from new industrial development, building electrification and electric vehicles. The advanced nuclear plant will complement New York’s ongoing deployment of renewable energy by adding zero-emission base load power, providing reliable and affordable clean energy to advance the State’s goal to achieve a clean energy economy.
Laborers’ International Union of North America Vice President & New England Regional Manager Donato A. Bianco, Jr. said, “Governor Hochul is right to recognize that nuclear energy must play a central role in New York’s energy future. If we’re serious about meeting our climate goals and sustaining the thousands of good-paying, union careers that come with green infrastructure, new nuclear development is essential. The Governor’s announcement is a strong step forward that reaffirms New York’s climate leadership while creating long-term career opportunities for New York’s skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen. We look forward to working closely with her administration to ensure these projects strengthen our energy economy and support working families for generations to come.”
NYPA, in coordination with the Department of Public Service (DPS), will seek to develop one new nuclear energy facility with a combined capacity of no less than one gigawatt of electricity, either alone or in partnership with private entities, to support the state’s electric grid.
New York State Building Trades President Gary LaBarbera said, “The development of nuclear plants is a proven method for not only lowering emissions and generating reliable energy, but also creating thousands of family-sustaining, union careers that pump economic stimulus into local communities. The expansion of our nuclear capabilities has long been a missing piece of New York’s pursuit of our climate goals and the construction of a new power plant will be crucial to the success of our green economy. We applaud Governor Hochul and the New York Power Authority for recognizing this need and laying the foundation necessary to set this new development in motion. The addition of this location to our fleet of nuclear plants will enhance the livelihoods of countless New Yorkers by limiting harmful pollutants, cutting energy costs, and bolstering the middle class in our local communities.”
Utility Workers Union of America (UWUA) President James Slevin said, “We’re glad the state recognizes the need for growing grid capacity and understands that nuclear is the right choice. This zero-emission energy source will deliver grid stability and help meet the needs of businesses and consumers as demands on the power grid continue to add up. Advanced nuclear energy technology has come a long way. It is without a doubt the right choice to power New York’s future in a way that will create family and community-supporting union jobs and benefit the economy.”
