By 5 Towns Central Staff

NEW YORK, N.Y. (Aug. 28, 2026)

New York is set to add its first new nuclear reactor in nearly four decades as the state faces growing electricity demand and some of the nation’s highest energy costs.

The reactor is planned for Fort Drum in northern New York as part of the Army’s Project Janus initiative to develop small nuclear reactors at military installations. Westinghouse has been selected for the roughly $2.2 billion project, which is expected to be operational within five years.

The Army plans to eventually develop about 20 microreactors at bases across the country, with private companies operating the facilities.

The move marks a shift in New York’s energy strategy following years of efforts to transition away from nuclear power and toward renewable energy. The state’s closure of Indian Point in 2021 has also been cited by critics as contributing to higher electricity costs and increased pressure on the power grid.

With New Yorkers now facing among the highest utility costs nationwide and electricity demand continuing to rise, state officials are placing renewed emphasis on nuclear power as a source of reliable generation.

Supporters of the Fort Drum project say it could attract additional nuclear investment to the region, create jobs and help advance microreactor technology for commercial use.

Gov. Kathy Hochul has pointed to nuclear energy as an increasingly important part of her energy strategy, saying the Fort Drum project could strengthen reliability, reduce costs and provide new economic opportunities.

Energy prices have also emerged as an issue in the 2026 gubernatorial race between Hochul and Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman.

Meanwhile, Rep. Mike Lawler has continued advocating for the possible reopening of the shuttered Indian Point facility in Westchester County, arguing that restoring nuclear generation could help address New York’s electricity costs.