Governor Ayotte Issues Executive Order to Foster Next-Generation Nuclear in New Hampshire

CONCORD, N.H. - Today, Governor Kelly Ayotte issued an Executive Order directing the New Hampshire Department of Energy to explore and advance the development of next-generation nuclear power as a reliable, cost-effective, and low-emission energy source.

"Granite Staters' electric bills are way too high, and bringing next-generation nuclear power to our state will help expand our energy supply and bring down costs for families," said Governor Ayotte. "Today, I'm directing our Department of Energy to bring together stakeholders, lawmakers and organizations focused on nuclear generation to ensure New Hampshire is at the forefront of this pivotal technology."

The order initiates a comprehensive review of regulatory, financial, and market factors affecting nuclear deployment, while engaging stakeholders across government and industry. It also calls for the creation of a statewide nuclear energy roadmap to guide future development. Preliminary findings are due within six months, with a final report expected within two years.

"New Hampshire consistently seeks ways to bolster innovation, enhance grid reliability, and increase energy affordability," said Commissioner Jared Chicoine of the New Hampshire Department of Energy. "The next generation of nuclear power has the potential to provide both our state and our region with economic benefits while increasing in-state generation. At the direction of Governor Ayotte, the Department of Energy is looking forward to exploring the future of nuclear energy in New Hampshire.

Governor Ayotte has made lowering Granite Staters' electric bills and reducing energy costs a critical priority of her administration. Earlier this month, her nominee to chair the Public Utilities Commission, Chris Ellms, was confirmed by the Executive Council with affordability as a "top priority". The Governor also sent a letter to ISO New England calling on them to save Granite Staters nearly a billion dollars in electricity costs by fixing its current market rules.

Read the Governor's Executive Order here.