In the latest episode of “The Gray Area,” Assemblyman Scott Gray (R-Watertown) shines a spotlight on a major opportunity for the North Country: the future of advanced nuclear energy in New York state.

Earlier this week, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced she is directing the New York Power Authority (NYPA) to begin development of zero-emission, advanced nuclear technology capable of producing 1 gigawatt of energy. Assemblyman Gray welcomed the announcement and emphasized how this emerging energy source could benefit both the state and his district.

“This is great news for New York and for the North Country,” said Gray. “Advanced nuclear technology is safe, reliable and emission-free. It’s dispatchable, which means it produces steady, on-demand energy to help stabilize the grid and lower costs for consumers.”

Gray pointed to the strategic positioning of Jefferson and St. Lawrence counties to potentially host or support this next-generation power infrastructure. Fort Drum is under consideration by the U.S. Department of Defense as a potential site for advanced nuclear development, which could offer both on-base and community-wide energy benefits.

“This type of energy generation is exactly what major companies like Micron, Google and Meta are looking for — high-capacity, clean and dependable,” he continued. “We’re doing everything we can to ensure the North Country is ready to benefit from this economic development and the jobs that come with it.”

To educate local leaders and stakeholders, Assemblyman Gray is hosting an Advanced Nuclear 101 information session on Monday, July 8, for county, town and village officials from Jefferson and St. Lawrence counties. Attendees will include representatives from:

• Clarkson University, providing insight on the current state of the power grid
• GAIN (Gateway for Accelerated Innovation in Nuclear), discussing safety protocols
• Nuclear New York, covering market trends and opportunities
• Labor unions and trade groups, highlighting job creation and workforce potential
• Local IDAs, the Farm Bureau and the Advocate Drum Development Authority, as part of a collaborative economic outlook

“We’ll continue to keep you posted and push this information out to the public, so everyone has a clearer understanding of what’s ahead,” Gray said. “Thank you for tuning in to this summer edition of The Gray Area. We’re back in the district—if you have any questions, concerns or comments, please don’t hesitate to call my office.”

Watch the full episode here.