1 Gigawatt to 1 million homes: New York bets big on nuclear energy revival; announces first major nuclear power plant in over 15 years

New York State is plunging into the nuclear age, announcing its first nuclear power plant in over a decade. Governor Kathy Hochul on Monday unveiled an ambitious plan to build what could be the biggest US reactor project in recent history.

Governor Kathy Hochul is directing the New York Power Authority (NYPA) to develop and construct at least 1 gigawatt of nuclear power capacity, which would provide electricity to approximately 1 million homes.

Speaking at the Niagara Falls hydroelectric plant, Governor Hochul stated, “We must radically increase supply, starting now… or face rolling blackouts and disruptions.”

Communities across upstate New York are already vying to host the facility, drawn by the promise of jobs, infrastructure, and clean energy. The project also builds on the state’s ongoing support for Constellation Energy Corp., the largest operator of nuclear reactors in the U.S. Constellation is currently seeking federal approval to expand nuclear operations at one of its three existing New York sites.

The move comes amid a national increase in demand for electricity, driven by the growth of data centers, manufacturing facilities, and electrified residential infrastructure. Nuclear energy is being reconsidered as a long-term, zero-emission power source capable of meeting this rising need.