Is NY going nuclear? Not anytime soon, energy analysts say.

"New York is trying to go nuclear. As the Empire State struggles to meet demand for clean energy, there's been renewed interest in the atom-splitting power source. In June, Gov. Kathy Hochul committed to building at least 1 gigawatt, enough to power about 1 million homes. Experts refer to the renewed interest as a "nuclear renaissance," with innovations such as smaller reactors as well as the promise of enough reliable emission-free energy to feed the growing demand of data centers and electrification."

"But nuclear experts warn that building a functioning nuclear power plant is a long, expensive endeavor that is difficult to locate, regardless of reactor size. The Union of Concerned Scientists also pointed out that there are still safety concerns even with new technology, and that renewable energy sources are a far safer, cost-effective option. "It's a low-carbon emissions source, but you have to put in the context of other types of electricity generation that are also low-carbon,"

New York committed to building at least 1 gigawatt of new nuclear capacity, roughly enough to power about 1 million homes. Renewed interest centers on smaller, modular reactors and micro-reactors that could replace gas-fired facilities or serve small communities. Proponents cite reliable, emission-free power to support data centers and electrification, and political alignment at the federal level. Critics point to long timelines, high costs, siting difficulties, and lingering safety concerns even with newer technology. The Union of Concerned Scientists emphasizes that renewables remain safer and more cost-effective compared with nuclear choices.

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