New York to build first large U.S. nuclear plant in 15 years, marking a key step for nuclear energy

New York State Plans to Build Large Nuclear Power Plant, Reviving Nuclear Energy Development

New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced plans to build a new nuclear power facility. This will be the first large-scale nuclear project in the United States in 15 years, marking a new phase in U.S. nuclear energy development. The project is expected to provide at least 1 gigawatt of additional power for New York State, meeting the electricity needs of about one million households.

Led by the Power Authority: Site Selection and Design to Commence

The nuclear power project will be advanced by the New York Power Authority, an institution set up by Franklin D. Roosevelt during his tenure as governor, long dedicated to public energy management. Hochul stated that the Power Authority will be responsible for selecting a suitable site in northern New York and determining the reactor design plan.

She added that the project could be independently implemented by the Power Authority or jointly developed with private energy enterprises to ensure the integration of funding, technology, and efficiency.

Policy Support: Responding to Trump's Nuclear Approval Promise

The project's initiation is also seen externally as a significant test of U.S. President Trump's promise to accelerate nuclear project approvals. Over the past decades, U.S. nuclear energy development has stalled due to cumbersome approval processes, high construction costs, and public safety concerns. New York's proactive initiative might serve as a "model example" for restarting nuclear projects across the country.

Hochul emphasized, "My goal is to ensure that every individual and business wishing to live or invest in New York can access stable and affordable energy services." Her statement reflects her policy determination to promote energy transition.

Potential Turnaround for the U.S. Nuclear Industry

Since the 1980s, the U.S. nuclear power industry has experienced a downturn, with few new projects and merely maintaining the operation of existing plants. However, with the advancement of carbon neutrality goals and the increasing demand for stable clean energy, nuclear power as a low-carbon and efficient energy source is once again gaining attention.

Analysts believe New York's move might trigger a chain reaction nationwide, prompting other states to reconsider nuclear power development strategies. Especially amid rising risks of extreme weather and energy shortages, stable nuclear power supply becomes an essential option for ensuring power security.

Facing Challenges: Funding and Public Acceptance Remain Key

Despite positive policy momentum, new nuclear power plants still face numerous challenges. For instance, project construction periods are lengthy, potentially costing tens of billions of dollars, with serious risks of budget and schedule overruns. Meanwhile, public concerns about nuclear safety persist. Establishing a transparent communication mechanism and building public trust are critical to the project's success.

Energy experts point out that if the New York project succeeds, it may break the current "only retreat, no advance" stance of the nuclear power industry, opening a new chapter for nuclear energy development in the United States.

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