Illinois and New York have recently taken significant steps in their efforts to enhance their nuclear capacity. This progress is part of a strategy to diversify the energy mix and meet the growing demand for electricity.
New York State’s Initiative
In June 2025, New York Governor Kathy Hochul tasked the New York Power Authority (NYPA), the state’s public utility, with exploring the possibility of adding one gigawatt of nuclear capacity in upstate New York. In response to this directive, the NYPA immediately began preliminary efforts and launched two Requests for Information (RFIs). One is aimed at communities in the state interested in hosting advanced nuclear projects, while the other seeks development partners with the necessary experience in the construction and operation of nuclear reactors.
The goal is to select sites that meet strict criteria, including size, access to water, and protection from external hazards. Local communities must demonstrate their support and ability to host such projects. The deadline for submitting proposals is set for December 11, 2025.
NYPA emphasizes the importance of collaboration with local stakeholders, government agencies, and private partners to maximize the economic and social benefits of the project. According to Justin Driscoll, President of NYPA, this participatory process is essential for determining the most suitable sites and forming partnerships that will offer the maximum benefits to the state.
Nuclear Resurgence in Illinois
Meanwhile, Illinois has lifted a 30-year ban on the construction of new nuclear reactors following the passage of Senate Bill 25 in late October 2025. This legislation paves the way for the construction of small modular reactors (SMRs), with a capacity of no more than 300 MWe, starting in 2026. The legislation also includes provisions for energy storage solutions and new energy efficiency initiatives to improve the state’s power grid resilience.
Illinois already generates more than half of its electricity from nuclear power, but the lifting of this ban marks a significant shift in the state’s energy policy. The construction of these new, smaller, and modular reactors is expected to increase nuclear capacity while meeting the safety and infrastructure flexibility requirements.
Implications for the U.S. Energy Sector
The initiatives taken by Illinois and New York could have a significant impact on the U.S. energy sector. Nuclear energy, which has long faced challenges, could play a crucial role in the country’s energy transition alongside renewable energy sources. The construction of new nuclear reactors would provide a stable and reliable power source for the years ahead while contributing to energy independence and carbon emission reductions. If these projects come to fruition, they could represent a turning point in how the country approaches small-scale nuclear energy production.
