New England Governors Explore Nuclear Expansion

The governors of the six New England states are publicly committing to exploring nuclear power technologies.

In a joint statement issued March 31, the governors outlined two steps to address high electricity prices and meeting future energy demand.

The six state leaders said they are directing their respective energy offices to explore the “continued safe, affordable, and reliable operation of the region’s existing nuclear generation facilities.”

In addition, they will direct state agencies to “explore deployment of advanced nuclear generation in states and communities that express a willingness to host such resources.”

“This includes exploring innovative financing structures, federal funding and financial support opportunities, public-private partnerships, and regulatory designs for advanced nuclear energy that will protect consumers, help meet the region’s energy needs, and enable New England to capture job growth and economic development opportunities from the deployment of new nuclear technologies with advanced safety systems,” the statement read.

The statement was signed by Gov. Ned Lamont of Connecticut, Gov. Janet Mills of Maine, Gov. Maura Healey of Massachusetts, Gov. Kelly Ayotte of New Hampshire, Gov. Dan McKee of Rhode Island, and Gov. Phil Scott of Vermont.

Collaboration

In the statement, the governors wrote that “New England has a long tradition of collaborating on regional energy matters.”

“Adequate electricity supply is critical to growing our economies, preserving public health and safety, powering our homes and businesses, and stabilizing consumer prices as demand for electricity rises across the region,” the statement noted.

“As governors, we are committed to safeguarding our collective energy future through advancement of a diverse energy strategy that includes nuclear power, a pillar of New England’s electric system.”

Electricity consumption in New England is expected to increase more than 40% over the next 20 years.

Electricity consumption in New England is expected to increase more than 40% over the next 20 years, according to regional grid operator ISO New England.

Demand for electricity in the winter is expected to grow fastest, with ISO New England’s latest forecast showing that winter peak demand is projected to double by 2045.

Connecticut is home to the Millstone Nuclear Power Station in Waterford, with existing contracts with that facility and New Hampshire’s Seabrook Station.

Last year, the General Assembly adopted legislation that offered modest relief to electric ratepayers while laying the groundwork for developing a more resilient, efficient, and equitable energy system.