NY Renews Coalition Opposes Governor Hochul’s Investment in New Nuclear at the Expense of Proven Renewable Energy Solutions

For Immediate Release: July 1, 2025

Contact: Marie Scarles, marie@nyrenews.org, (646) 389-8429

Web: www.nyrenews.org | Instagram | Twitter | Bluesky | Facebook

New York — NY Renews, the largest coalition focused on climate justice in New York State and the leading force behind the State’s climate law, opposes the Governor’s directive to the NY Power Authority (NYPA) to take resources from proven renewable energy solutions to expand nuclear energy production. Stephan Edel, NY Renews Executive Director, released the following statement:

NY Renews opposes the expansion or further investment in nuclear energy production in New York State due to its legacy of negative impacts on Indigenous communities, women, and children; concerns over the handling of radioactive materials throughout their lifecycle; and the exorbitant costs associated with this form of energy. 

NY Renews proposes that, rather than increased investments in aging legacy nuclear power or untested “advanced new” nuclear power, funding be used to advance a truly renewable energy future based on solar, wind, geothermal, and long-duration battery storage.

We desire long-term funding for a just and equitable transition for workers and communities economically reliant on nuclear energy production in a manner that does not shift or increase electric power generation towards fossil fuels. We seek to be respectful and engage with the leadership of workers in the nuclear industry, other unions, and community leaders to push New York State to responsibly and gradually eliminate the use of nuclear energy.

Additional statements from NY Renews members:

“The Build Public Renewables Act of 2023 gives NYPA the ability to build 15GW of publicly-owned renewables. NYPA should be laser-focused on rapidly scaling up the buildout of affordable solar and wind, which is the only way to meet the state’s science-based climate goals and lower energy bills. Simply put, community solar and utility-scale solar are the most affordable, most reliable, and most expeditious source of energy generation,” said Michael Richardson, co-facilitator of Third Act Upstate New York.

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NY Renews is a coalition of nearly 400 climate, labor, youth, and community groups, and the force behind the nation’s most progressive climate law. We fight for clean energy, good jobs, and a healthier, more affordable New York. Learn more about our Fund Climate Campaign.