New York is taking another step toward building at least 1 gigawatt of new nuclear generating capacity upstate, with state officials launching parallel efforts focused on project development and workforce training.
Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Monday that the New York Power Authority has issued a Request for Qualifications seeking experienced nuclear developers and project partners, while also opening applications for a $40 million workforce development initiative designed to prepare New Yorkers for jobs in the growing nuclear energy sector.
The effort is part of Hochul’s broader plan to create a 5-gigawatt “Nuclear Reliability Backbone” for New York. Combined with the state’s existing 3.4 gigawatts of nuclear generation, officials say the initiative would create an 8.4-gigawatt foundation of zero-emission power intended to support grid reliability, affordability and growing electricity demand.
The development solicitation seeks proposals from companies capable of delivering at least 1 gigawatt of advanced nuclear generation in Upstate New York. Applicants will be asked to demonstrate technology readiness, siting and permitting strategies, projected costs and timelines, and potential ownership structures. State officials said the move builds on strong industry interest generated by earlier requests for information, which drew responses from more than 30 organizations and communities.
At the same time, NYPA is launching a workforce training program that will distribute up to $40 million over four years to educational institutions, labor organizations, manufacturers and community groups. The funding is intended to support training programs, internships and job placement efforts for workers entering nuclear construction and operations careers.
State officials say advanced nuclear power will provide around-the-clock electricity generation to complement renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. Hochul has increasingly promoted an “all-of-the-above” energy strategy as New York confronts rising power demand from economic development projects, electrification initiatives and growing energy consumption.
The state is also developing a master plan for advanced nuclear energy through the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, the Department of Public Service and other agencies. That effort is expected to conclude by the end of 2026 and will help guide future deployment of advanced nuclear technologies across New York.
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