Potential Increase in Nuclear Energy for New York
TL/DR –
New York is exploring nuclear power as a way to meet its zero-emissions goal by 2040. The state energy authority, NYSERDA, is seeking company interest in developing nuclear power plants and researchers believe that renewables alone will not meet the state’s growing energy needs. However, environmental groups and some officials are opposed to this approach due to concerns about nuclear accidents, waste, and cost.
New York Explores Nuclear Energy Amid Emission Reduction Goals
New York’s quest to transition from fossil fuels has brought nuclear energy to the forefront. Last month, the state energy authority, NYSERDA, began soliciting interest from potential nuclear power plant developers. This move follows Governor Kathy Hochul’s statement that new nuclear plants could help power technology companies in the state.
Doreen Harris, NYSERDA’s president and CEO, stated that the goal is to support the increased deployment of renewables for a zero-emission grid. As part of its climate law, New York is committed to achieving 100% emissions-free electricity by 2040, a commitment that excludes electricity from fossil fuel sources.
However, meeting these commitments poses a stark challenge. Official reports suggest that New York is unlikely to meet its target of 70% electricity from renewable sources by 2030. As the state’s energy needs are predicted to increase, renewable energy may struggle to meet demand.
The potential solution? More nuclear reactors, according to officials and industry advocates. Nuclear reactors generate electricity without producing climate-warming emissions. Dietmar Detering, chair of Nuclear New York, highlighted the essential role that nuclear energy could play in meeting the state’s energy needs.
A Controversial Approach
Despite its emissions-free energy production, nuclear power raises concerns for many environmentalists. These concerns stem from the potential for harmful nuclear accidents, the danger of nuclear waste, and the high costs and long construction times associated with nuclear power plants.
Four nuclear reactors along Lake Ontario currently provide one-fifth of the state’s electricity. However, other nuclear facilities have faced issues. The Shoreham nuclear plant, for example, cost nearly $6 billion and never opened due to concerns over safe evacuation routes.
The Energy Equation
While some environmentalists advocate for a focus on renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, experts like Lindsay Anderson, a professor at Cornell University, suggest that renewables alone may not meet New York’s growing energy needs.
Anderson and her students have constructed a model predicting the state’s energy needs in the future. Their research indicates that even maximum investment in wind, solar, and energy storage may be insufficient. Expanding nuclear power may help fill this gap.
Despite the debate, nuclear power has gained support nationwide. The Biden administration recently announced plans to triple nuclear energy production by 2050, and the federal government has earmarked billions for nuclear research and development.
—
Read More US Economic News