The town of Oswego, New York, has expressed interest in hosting a fourth nuclear power plant, despite already having three operational facilities within a 10-mile radius. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul's recent announcement of a commitment to add a gigawatt of nuclear power to the state grid has sparked renewed interest in Oswego as a potential site for the new power plant. This move is partly aimed at meeting the growing electricity demands of the booming AI industry.

According to Mayor Don Mitchell, Oswego's mayor, the town sees nuclear energy as a vital component in its economic development strategy. "We believe that nuclear energy can provide a reliable and clean source of power, which is essential for our growing industries, including the AI sector," Mitchell said in an interview with Vox. The average US nuclear power station can provide enough electricity to support 1.4 million homes, and nuclear power operates 24/7 without generating carbon emissions or traditional air pollution. Additionally, these plants create hundreds of jobs, which is a significant draw for communities looking to boost their local economies.

The benefits of nuclear energy are well-documented, but the industry has faced criticism in the past due to high-profile disasters such as Three Mile Island, Chernobyl, and Fukushima. However, experts argue that modern nuclear power plants are designed with enhanced safety features and more stringent regulations, reducing the risk of such incidents. "The nuclear industry has made significant strides in recent years to improve safety and efficiency," said Dr. Maria Korsnick, president and CEO of the Nuclear Energy Institute. "We believe that nuclear energy can play a critical role in meeting our clean energy goals and supporting economic growth."

The proposed new nuclear power plant in Oswego would be a significant addition to the town's existing infrastructure. The plant would be designed to provide a reliable and clean source of power, which would help to meet the growing demands of the AI industry. According to Gov. Hochul's announcement, the new power plant would be part of a broader effort to add a gigawatt of nuclear power to the New York state grid. This move is seen as a key step in reducing the state's reliance on fossil fuels and meeting its clean energy goals.

As the proposal for the new nuclear power plant in Oswego moves forward, town officials and industry experts will be closely monitoring the situation. The next steps will involve conducting environmental impact assessments and engaging with local communities to address any concerns. If approved, the new power plant would be a significant development for Oswego and the state of New York, providing a reliable and clean source of power for years to come.