New York Moves to Build First Major Nuclear Facility in Over 15 Years
New York is set to construct its first significant nuclear power plant in more than a decade and a half. Governor Kathy Hochul has instructed the state’s public authorities to enhance existing aging nuclear plants by adding at least one gigawatt of new energy capacity.
This project aligns with some of former President Donald Trump’s executive initiatives aimed at reviving nuclear energy in the U.S. The announcement references his push for a “nuclear renaissance” made back on May 23rd.
The New York initiative serves as an early test of Trump’s broader vision. His presidential order called for the revival of nuclear power, outlining plans to reduce the approval process for new reactors, supply next-generation power to military bases and AI data centers, and triple the nation’s nuclear capabilities by 2050. There’s also an emphasis on recycling fuel, boosting domestic uranium production, and training a new generation of nuclear professionals.
Historically, nuclear energy has faced criticism from environmentalists, often labeled as unsafe and outdated. Yet recent events—like power outages, rising electricity costs, and the limitations of wind and solar energy—have caused an increasing number of leaders to rethink their energy strategies.
The situation is especially nuanced compared to California’s energy landscape. Governor Gavin Newsom, facing record heat and power outages in 2020, acknowledged a truth some environmentally conscious advocates might not want to admit: reliance solely on renewables isn’t sufficient. He stressed that reliability cannot be sacrificed in the push for transition, especially when the sun sets and wind becomes scarce.
Tech giants like Amazon, Google, Meta, and Microsoft are weighing in on this shift. They advocate for increasing nuclear capacity by 2050, citing a need for stable, carbon-free energy to support the growing demands of artificial intelligence and data centers. Amazon is pouring over $1 billion into nuclear initiatives, and Microsoft is planning to revive the long-closed Three Mile Island reactor. Mark Zuckerberg has even pointed out that nuclear energy is essential for handling the booming AI sector.
Interestingly, Nvidia is getting involved too. The chip-making company has invested in Terrapower, a nuclear startup founded by Bill Gates, which is building the first advanced nuclear power facility in U.S. history. The Natrium Reactor will aim to adjust power supply on demand and work alongside intermittent renewable energy sources.
Meanwhile, everyday consumers are grappling with the consequences of green energy policies that haven’t delivered as promised. Research from the UK indicates that the Green Agenda has cost over £220 billion since 2006. Spain, having faced significant blackouts last year, is now leaning more on nuclear and gas just to keep the lights on.
Former President Joe Biden’s term saw a shift in focus toward gas stoves and other climate initiatives. Now, the renewed interest in nuclear power, which he had previously supported more quietly, is being propelled forward by Trump’s nuclear expansion initiatives, which have become integral to the 2025 energy strategy. An executive order signed this past May aims to expedite nuclear approvals, foster domestic uranium mining, and ensure new nuclear infrastructure is available for military and AI facilities.
