The governor of California has said he will not act to extend the operating life of the US state’s only commercial nuclear power station during the final months of his term, leaving its fate in limbo at least until next year.

Gavin Newsom was asked about the two-unit Diablo Canyon nuclear power station, in San Luis Obispo County, during a press conference.

The facility was set to be retired when owner and operator PG&E agreed in 2016 to shut down both units, but Newsom delayed the closure in 2022 after heat waves caused blackouts.

“That will be the baton I pass on to the next administration,” said Newsom, whose term will end in January 2027, when asked about his plans for the facility.