TRENTON, N.J. — Gov. Mikie Sherrill has signed legislation removing a long-standing barrier to new nuclear power development in New Jersey and announced the creation of a task force to explore future nuclear energy options.
The measure eliminates a permitting requirement that had effectively blocked construction of new nuclear facilities for decades. Officials said the change allows the state to consider new nuclear projects while maintaining federal safety standards.
“For costs to come down, we need more energy supply. New Jersey is well-positioned to be a leader in next-generation nuclear energy to help bring that supply, and we are open for business,” said Governor Mikie Sherrill. “By lifting outdated barriers and bringing together leaders across government, industry, and labor, we’re setting the stage for our state to pursue new advanced nuclear power. This will help New Jersey secure a stronger, cleaner, more affordable, and reliable energy future – while keeping the state at the forefront of innovation, job creation, and economic growth.”
The legislation addresses provisions in the Coastal Area Facility Review Act that required a federally approved method of permanent radioactive waste disposal before new nuclear permits could be issued — a standard officials said has not been met.
Under the new law, state regulators can approve permits based on existing, federally compliant waste storage methods.
In conjunction with the bill signing, Sherrill established a Nuclear Task Force that will evaluate opportunities for expanding nuclear energy in the state. The group will include representatives from government, industry, labor and environmental organizations and will focus on areas such as financing, workforce development, regulatory policy and public engagement.
Officials said the move comes as energy demand increases and concerns over electricity costs continue.
“Expanding the energy supply is one of the more impactful steps we can take to help bring utility costs under control,” said Senate President Nicholas Scutari. “As energy expenses increase and the demand for affordable electricity grows, it’s important that we have all options on the table. Nuclear power is a clean, reliable source of power that can improve energy security and affordability.”
“I look forward to working with Governor Sherrill as we continue to tackle New Jersey’s energy crisis and am excited that we are moving closer to building more nuclear generation in our State because it has proven to be a stable and reliable carbon neutral energy source that will help us bridge the gap between what we generate and use,” said Assemblyman Wayne DeAngelo.
State officials noted that existing nuclear facilities, including the Salem and Hope Creek plants, currently generate a significant portion of New Jersey’s electricity and pollution-free power.
Supporters of the legislation said expanding nuclear capacity could help meet growing energy needs and stabilize costs, while the task force is expected to study potential impacts and guide future policy decisions.
Additional statements of support came from federal and state officials, labor groups and business organizations, who cited the role of nuclear energy in addressing supply challenges and supporting economic growth.
