Nuclear Energy Policy Summit Insights for Dunkirk’s Future
Submitted Photo
Mark Geise, Chautauqua County Deputy County Executive for Economic Development and CEO of the County of Chautauqua Industrial Development Agency (CCIDA), alongside Vince DeJoy, City of Dunkirk Director of Planning and Development, recently attended the 2026 Nuclear Energy Policy Summit in New York City. Pictured (from left to right): Francis Dinh (Genover), Scott Cicora (Nuclear New York), Geise, Jared Rossi (Genover), and DeJoy.
As discussions loom over a productive future for the former NRG Generating Station in Dunkirk, local economic development officials sought insights from the nuclear energy landscape at a recent summit.
Geise and DeJoy’s attendance underscores a commitment to exploring nuclear energy’s potential role in revitalizing the site, which has been vacant since its retirement in 2016. Along with representatives from Genover LLC—the current property owner—they engaged in dialogue during the two-day event hosted by the Atlantic Council’s Nuclear Energy Policy Initiative.
The summit provided a platform for industry leaders to outline the future trajectory of nuclear energy, including necessary regulatory frameworks, financing methods, and potential public-private partnerships. Geise emphasized the importance of this knowledge:
“The summit allowed us to connect with industry leaders about technological advancements and project realization pathways.”
DeJoy added that networking with experts—including an NRC Commissioner—enhanced their understanding of financial challenges inherent in nuclear projects, alongside an emphasis on community engagement and safety information dissemination.
With strong historical ties to energy production, the former Dunkirk facility presents a unique opportunity for redevelopment, particularly given its infrastructure and strategic location. Local leaders and Genover will continue to explore viable economic prospects aligned with community growth and job creation.
For further updates on economic initiatives in Chautauqua County, visit ChooseCHQ.com.
