Across the country, states are taking a fresh look at nuclear energy—and acting on it.

• New York is pursuing five gigawatts of new nuclear power by 2040.
• Illinois is seeking at least two gigawatts and has already identified communities interested in hosting projects.
• Governors across the political spectrum increasingly recognize that nuclear power will be essential to meeting rising electricity demand while maintaining reliability and reducing emissions.

As this momentum grows, energy leaders are watching New Jersey to see what comes next. And the early signals are promising.

Governor Mikie Sherrill has spoken clearly about the need for more reliable, affordable power. She recently signed legislation beginning the process of adding more than one gigawatt of new nuclear generation to New Jersey’s energy mix.

AENJ supports this important step and the governor’s recognition that nuclear power should play a larger role in the state’s energy future.

The need is clear. New Jersey’s electricity demand is rising, families and businesses are facing high energy costs, and the regional grid is not adding dependable generation quickly enough. Nuclear power can provide large amounts of carbon-free electricity around the clock, complementing renewable resources and strengthening the reliability of the entire system.

New Jersey already understands the value of nuclear power. The opportunity now is to build on that foundation. The new law gives state regulators until mid-2028 to approve a project. A successful process should include:

• A clear, competitive path for procuring new nuclear generation
• Predictable timelines that keep projects moving
• Strong consumer protections and transparent cost controls
• Close coordination on permitting, transmission, and grid interconnection
• Support for the skilled New Jersey workforce needed to build and operate these facilities

Other states are moving quickly, and New Jersey has every reason to move with them. With the right approach, new nuclear generation can strengthen reliability, support long-term affordability, create high-quality jobs and help keep the state’s economy competitive.

Governor Sherrill and state leaders have taken an encouraging first step. AENJ looks forward to working with the administration, regulators, labor, and the energy industry to turn that commitment into a new generation for New Jersey.

The national nuclear conversation has changed. New Jersey is responding—and now has the opportunity to help lead what comes next.