Nuclear Power vs. Solar: A No-Brainer
Nuclear Power vs. Solar: A No-Brainer
Why I’m the Only Candidate Who Can Do Basic Math
Let’s talk about energy. Specifically, let’s talk about how New Jersey’s major utility companies are set to raise rates by a staggering 17.5% to 20.5% as of June 1st, 2025. That’s not just a minor inconvenience—it’s an outright assault on families, businesses, and the economic well-being of our state. And yet, I seem to be the only candidate who has a solution that doesn’t involve mortgaging our future on outdated, overpriced, and dangerous nuclear power.
Nuclear: The Overpriced Relic We Don’t Need
For some reason, the powers that be still want to cling to nuclear energy as if it’s some futuristic miracle. Here’s the reality check: it’s not. It’s expensive, slow to build, and riddled with risks that nobody wants to talk about.
The True Cost of Nuclear:
A new 1100MW nuclear power plant costs between $30 billion and $34 billion.
That translates to a price per watt (PPW) of $27.27 to $30.91.
It takes 7-10 years to construct—if everything goes perfectly (which it never does).
The plants last 40-60 years, but that’s only with continuous costly maintenance.
That’s five times the cost of solar. Five times! Meanwhile, I hear crickets from my opponents. Maybe math isn’t their strong suit?
Solar: The Affordable, Common-Sense Solution
Now, let’s compare that to solar energy—the actual clean, cheap, and effective solution. Solar panels:
Cost between $2.75 and $3.15 per watt (even with battery storage, it’s still only $4.74 per watt).
Can be installed in months, not years.
Last 25-30 years with warranties guaranteeing 80% efficiency.
Don’t produce radioactive waste or have meltdown risks.
Are 95% recyclable, meaning that in 20 years, we can introduce businesses into the NJ landscape to take advantage of this emerging industry.
Within 2-3 years, we could have 1,100MW of solar installed across rooftops, warehouses, and open spaces throughout New Jersey at just 1/6th the cost of nuclear. That’s not wishful thinking—that’s simple math and planning.
Battery Storage: Strengthening the Grid, Cutting Costs
Adding battery storage to solar installations is the real game-changer. Here’s why:
Energy independence: Homeowners and businesses can store excess power, reducing reliance on the grid.
Backup power: When the grid fails (as it inevitably does), stored energy keeps the lights on.
Lower bills: By using stored energy during peak pricing hours, consumers save money.
Property value boost: Homes with battery systems are worth more.
On a grid level, battery storage helps:
Prevent blackouts by providing stability.
Reduce dependence on fossil fuel-based peaker plants.
Enhance grid efficiency, ultimately lowering costs for consumers.
Innovation: Hemp-Based Energy Storage
If we’re serious about long-term energy independence, why not manufacture our own sustainable battery storage right here in New Jersey?
Hemp-based battery technologies are on the rise:
Hemp batteries outperform lithium-ion in energy density and safety.
Hemp supercapacitors provide higher energy storage at lower cost.
Companies like Florrent and Bemp Research are already developing these technologies.
By investing in local production of these cutting-edge technologies, we create jobs, generate revenue, and build a future where New Jersey leads the clean energy revolution instead of lagging behind.
Manufacturing Solar Components and Carports: A Smart Investment
If we’re going to construct anything, we should be working with manufacturing businesses that can produce the components that go into solar systems. We have the opportunity to build a thriving industry in New Jersey that not only installs solar but manufactures the panels, batteries, and other key parts needed for a sustainable energy future.
Additionally, we should prioritize the construction of solar carports to cover parking areas across the state. These structures provide multiple benefits:
Generate clean energy while utilizing existing parking spaces.
Provide shade and protection for parked vehicles.
Reduce urban heat island effects, making our cities cooler and more sustainable.
Create thousands of new manufacturing and construction jobs right here in New Jersey.
The Bottom Line: Do We Want Progress or More of the Same?
My opponents are too busy playing politics to offer real solutions. They’ll throw buzzwords around, promise vague “studies,” and do whatever it takes to maintain the status quo. But New Jersey doesn’t have time for delays.
We can install solar and battery storage now, not wait 5-7 years for a nuclear plant that will cost us billions and jack up utility rates even further. Within just a few years, we can have a cheaper, cleaner, and more resilient energy system that actually benefits the people of New Jersey.
It’s time for a Governor who can do basic math and has a real plan to make New Jersey energy independent. That’s why I’m running, and that’s why we need change.
Stephen Zielinski Sr for Governor
#Zielinski4Gov
