Connecticut and its New England neighbors, including Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont, will host a regional policy summit on September 30, 2026, to explore the potential of advanced nuclear technologies in the region's energy future. The 2026 New England Regional Nuclear Policy Summit aims to bring together public and private sector experts to discuss how these technologies can support long-term energy affordability, grid reliability, economic competitiveness, and zero-carbon energy goals.
The one-day summit will be held at the University of Massachusetts Lowell Rist Institute for Sustainability and Energy in Lowell, Massachusetts. Key considerations such as safety, regulatory oversight, community engagement, and public trust will also be addressed. While in-person attendance is limited, a virtual option will be available.
Governor Ned Lamont emphasized Connecticut's leadership in nuclear energy, stating, "Connecticut has been a leader in nuclear energy as part of our state’s all-of-the-above approach to delivering affordable, reliable, and clean energy for Connecticut ratepayers." He added that the summit provides an opportunity for stakeholders and communities to learn about new advanced nuclear technologies and their potential contribution to the grid.
The summit fulfills a directive from the New England governors earlier this year, which called for the continued safe operation of existing nuclear plants and the exploration of advanced nuclear and fusion energy. Leadership from the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) will participate. DEEP Acting Commissioner Emma Cimino said, "DEEP is committed to continuing this open dialogue with Connecticut communities and our New England sister states to explore the potential role of advanced nuclear technologies in helping meet our region’s clean energy needs safely, reliably, and affordably."
Connecticut's robust nuclear sector includes the Millstone Nuclear Power Station, a U.S. Navy Submarine base, and Electric Boat. The state has existing contracts to purchase energy from Millstone and New Hampshire's Seabrook Station, which together supply 20% to 25% of New England's power needs annually. Recent legislation, Public Act 25-173, establishes a community-driven pathway for advanced nuclear development, including a $5 million Site Readiness Funding Program. Public Act 26-46 also addresses workforce development for future nuclear energy.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey said, "New England is home to some of the brightest minds and most innovative companies in the world, including leaders in advanced nuclear and fusion." Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee added, "My administration is working to expand our energy supply and lower costs by pursuing new sources of power, including nuclear energy and advanced nuclear technologies." The New England states, with support from the National Governors Association, are exploring investment models for deploying these technologies as electricity demand grows.