New York’s getting a new nuclear power plant
VergeJUN 21
NY Plans First Major Nuclear Plant in US for Over 15 Years
Above: The Indian Point Power Plant, NYPA’s last nuclear plant, on April 30, 2021. Image copyright: Kena Betancur/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-government narrative
As New York state increasingly electrifies and moves away from climate-damaging fossil fuels, there is a pressing need for an energy supply that is clean, abundant, reliable, and secure. At present, only nuclear power can meet all four requirements, making its pursuit by the governor and state authorities paramount for New York’s energy future.
Climate activist narrative
New York State is already struggling to meet its climate goals and is on track to miss its legally binding targets. Rather than helping, turning to nuclear would only hinder its progress further. As demonstrated by the Georgian Vogtle reactors and Utah’s canceled NuScale, nuclear is dangerous and toxic and offers no solution to the climate crisis.
Cynical narrative
Significant questions remain unanswered relating to this nuclear development. It's still unclear if it will be cost-effective, whether there is public consent, if it will have a near-term impact, or whether alternatives exist. With no existing examples of successful nuclear development in the U.S. to answer these concerns, Hochul’s plan looks like a risky gamble.