New Jersey Lifts 40-Year Ban on Nuclear Power and Creates Nuclear Task Force
Official: Governor Sherrill Signs Legislation Lifting 40 Year Nuclear Moratorium, Launches Nuclear Task Force at Salem Nuclear Power Plant (Governor’s Office News Release)
Reading: Lifting a 40-year nuclear moratorium expands the range of available clean-energy technologies and removes a regulatory barrier to low-carbon electricity generation.
This opens the door for nuclear power to play a larger role in New Jersey's clean energy future.
In clear language
New Jersey has ended a 40-year-old law that prohibited new nuclear power plants in the state. The Governor signed legislation to lift this moratorium and launched a task force focused on nuclear energy at the Salem Nuclear Power Plant. This opens the door for nuclear power to play a larger role in New Jersey's clean energy future.
How does this affect you?
Pick the type of resident or organization you most identify with — we'll generate a plain-language breakdown of what changes for you and what you can do about it.
Who does this affect?
- New Jersey residents relying on electricity from the power grid, as nuclear could change the energy mix they depend on
- Nuclear industry workers and companies interested in building or operating nuclear facilities in New Jersey
- Communities near existing and potential new nuclear power plant sites, particularly around Salem
- Businesses and manufacturers that consume large amounts of electricity
What can you do?
- Stay informed about the nuclear task force's recommendations and public comment periods as the policy develops
- Engage with local government representatives if you live near a potential nuclear development site
- Learn about nuclear energy's role in clean energy and form your own position on the policy
Timeline
- 2026-04-08: Governor signs legislation lifting moratorium
No New Jersey official has a verified action on this policy yet.
Related policies
- DEPJan 15, 2026New Jersey's Electric Grid Gets Smarter: Two-Way Vehicle Charging Program Launches
New Jersey's Department of Environmental Protection and Board of Public Utilities are starting a pilot program that lets electric vehicles charge in a way that helps balance the electricity grid. This technology, called bi-directional charging, lets cars send power back to the grid when needed, reducing strain during peak times. The program is part of New Jersey's broader effort to modernize the energy system.
- BPUJul 27, 2026New Jersey's Plan to Use Home Solar and Batteries to Power the Grid and Lower Energy Bills
New Jersey is proposing a "Virtual Power Plant" program that uses distributed energy resources like rooftop solar, batteries, and smart devices to balance the power grid and reduce costs for ratepayers. The program aims to save millions of dollars annually by allowing households and businesses to participate in grid management. This could reduce the need for expensive power plants and make energy more affordable and reliable.
- Federal RegisterJul 15, 2026EPA approves Wisconsin's plan to reduce nitrogen oxide pollution from Oak Creek Power Plant
The EPA is approving Wisconsin's plan to set new, lower limits on nitrogen oxide emissions from the Oak Creek Power Plant. These new limits will require the plant to emit less pollution over time while still meeting federal air quality standards. This change helps improve air quality in the region and keeps the state in compliance with federal clean air rules.
- BPUJul 15, 2026New Jersey Approves One-Year Plan to Make Energy Use More Efficient and Get Ready for Smart Grid Technology
New Jersey's Board of Public Utilities approved a temporary one-year energy efficiency plan designed to reduce what residents and businesses pay for electricity while preparing the grid for smart technology upgrades. The plan focuses on helping people use less energy and modernizing how the power system works. This is a transition step before a longer-term energy efficiency program takes effect.