New Jersey Lifts Decades-Old Nuclear Energy Ban

Governor Sherrill says the move will help the state meet clean energy goals.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:44pm

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A dynamic, abstract painting of a nuclear reactor tower in overlapping, geometric waves of deep blues, greens, and grays, conceptually representing the complex, high-tech nature of modern nuclear power.New Jersey's decision to lift its decades-old nuclear energy ban opens the door for advanced nuclear technology to help the state meet its ambitious clean energy goals.Philadelphia Today

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has lifted the state's 40-year moratorium on new nuclear power plant construction, a move that could pave the way for the development of next-generation nuclear technology to help the state meet its ambitious clean energy targets.

Why it matters

New Jersey has some of the most aggressive clean energy goals in the country, aiming to reach 100% clean electricity by 2035. With the ban on nuclear power lifted, the state can now consider nuclear as part of its future energy mix, alongside renewable sources like solar and wind.

The details

The nuclear energy ban was first enacted in 1983 amid safety concerns following the Three Mile Island accident. However, Sherrill and other state leaders now view advanced nuclear power as a critical zero-emissions technology that can complement renewable energy sources and help the state achieve its climate goals.

  • The nuclear energy ban was first enacted in 1983.
  • Governor Sherrill lifted the ban on April 9, 2026.

The players

Mikie Sherrill

The Governor of New Jersey who lifted the state's 40-year moratorium on new nuclear power plant construction.

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What they’re saying

“Nuclear power is a key part of our clean energy future, and lifting this outdated ban will allow us to explore next-generation nuclear technology that can help us reach our climate goals.”

— Mikie Sherrill, Governor of New Jersey

What’s next

The state will now begin evaluating proposals and applications for new nuclear power plant construction, with the goal of bringing online new zero-emissions nuclear capacity in the coming decade.

The takeaway

New Jersey's decision to lift its nuclear energy ban represents a significant shift in the state's energy policy, signaling that advanced nuclear power will be part of the solution as the state works to transition to 100% clean electricity by 2035.