Hochul advances nuclear development in New York, sparking debate over cost, carbon claims, and climate goals

New York Governor Kathy Hochul is pushing forward with plans to build five gigawatts of new nuclear power, equivalent to five large plants. She calls it zero-emissions electricity and a key part of the state's climate strategy. But critics, including environmental attorney Susan Shapiro, argue that the nuclear fuel cycle is carbon intensive and that the claim of emissions free power is misleading. The state's Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, which prioritizes solar and wind, faces delays as nuclear gains political support. A bill in the state legislature would impose a moratorium on new nuclear development until a full assessment of costs, safety, and waste is completed. It cites the failed Shoreham plant on Long Island and the massively over-budget Vogtle plants in Georgia as warnings. The bill stalled in the 2026 session but could return in 2027. Meanwhile, Hochul's nuclear push may become a campaign issue in the November election, though her Republican opponent also supports nuclear expansion.