New Jersey has taken a significant step toward expanding its nuclear energy capacity after Mikie Sherrill signed legislation lifting long-standing restrictions on handling radioactive waste, clearing a path for potential new nuclear plant development.
The bill signing took place at the Salem Nuclear Power Plant, where state leaders and industry stakeholders gathered to support what they described as a critical move to modernize energy policy and address rising electricity demand.
The legislative change comes amid mounting pressure on the region’s power supply, including a roughly 20% increase in electricity bills over the past year tied to a regional wholesale energy auction and growing demand from energy-intensive sectors such as artificial intelligence data centers.
“By lifting outdated barriers and bringing together leaders across government, industry and labor, we’re setting the stage for our state to pursue new advanced nuclear power,” Sherrill said in a statement. “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 newly signed legislation removes a key obstacle embedded in the state’s Coastal Area Facility Review Act, which had effectively blocked new nuclear construction by requiring a federally approved system for disposing of spent nuclear fuel—something that does not currently exist in the United States.
The Governor’s Office described the requirement as an “outdated standard that cannot be met.”
Under the updated law, the state Department of Environmental Protection commissioner can now approve permits for radioactive waste storage practices that comply with rules set by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
The move is expected to allow New Jersey to explore advanced nuclear technologies while aligning with federal safety standards.
In addition, the legislation enables a 14-member panel established by Sherrill to begin evaluating key factors necessary for future nuclear development, including financing, supply chains and regulatory frameworks.
State officials say the policy shift is driven by growing concerns over grid reliability and long-term energy affordability.
New Jersey’s existing nuclear facilities—Salem and Hope Creek Generating Station—already supply more than 40% of the state’s electricity, making nuclear energy a cornerstone of its power mix.
.jpg)
Regional grid operator PJM Interconnection has warned that without new generating capacity, the system could face increasing shortages, higher costs and reduced reliability as aging infrastructure is retired and demand continues to rise.
Support for the legislation spans a broad coalition, including lawmakers, utilities, labor unions and business organizations. Backers include Senate President Nick Scutari, PSEG leadership, and labor groups such as IBEW Local 94 and LIUNA.
“This bill removes the red tape and says New Jersey is open for business for nuclear energy, and IBEW applauds the governor’s continued leadership because we know more power means lower bills for New Jersey residents,” said Joseph Egan, president of the New Jersey State Electrical Workers Construction Division.
As New Jersey moves forward, the newly authorized review panel is expected to play a key role in determining how and where future nuclear projects could be developed, positioning the state to meet growing energy needs while balancing environmental and economic priorities.
Originally reported by Elise Young in NJ Spotlight News.
.png)
