Big Tech Bets over $500 Million on Nuclear Power

In a bold move reflecting the rising need for sustainable energy sources, Amazon Web Services (AWS) recently announced an investment exceeding $500 million in nuclear power. This investment is part of a larger trend among tech giants, including Google and Microsoft, who are also making strides in nuclear energy to address the increasing power demands driven by artificial intelligence (AI) processing capabilities. AWS has signed three agreements to support the development of nuclear energy projects, underpinning the tech industry's commitment to innovative energy solutions. Google recently collaborated with Chrysalix, while Microsoft has partnered with Constellation to facilitate the reactivation of the 3 Mile Island reactor. As these tech leaders pivot towards nuclear energy, they are responding to anticipated surges in power needs alongside the growth of AI technologies. The Biden Administration is also engaging in this developmental shift, having opened grant applications for $900 million intended for the enhancement of small modular reactors—considered crucial for the future of nuclear energy. Companies in the nuclear sector, such as OAKO—backed by prominent investors including Sam Altman—and NuScale, which has seen a staggering 400% increase in stock this year, are at the forefront of this energy revolution. These investments, however, will take years to materialize, indicating a long-term commitment from Big Tech to ensure energy sustainability.