Powering the Future: Why Tech Giants Are Turning to Nuclear Energy

Major tech companies, including Microsoft, Amazon, Google, and Meta, are increasingly investing in nuclear power to address the surging energy demands of their data centers that support artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing. The U.S. Department of Energy projects global electricity consumption could rise as much as 75% by 2050, largely driven by the tech industry’s ambitions in AI. Data centers may soon require more electricity than entire cities; for instance, a new data center could consume as much power as Chicago. These facilities require “steady, straight through, 100% power, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year,” according to Mark Nelson, managing director of Radiant Energy Group. In response to these challenges, tech giants are exploring nuclear power for its efficiency and potential to provide carbon-free, always-on electricity, which aligns with their sustainability goals. Michael Terrell, senior director of energy and climate at Google, highlights the economic benefits of nuclear energy as essential infrastructure for technological advancements. This renewed interest in nuclear technology signals the start of a potential “nuclear revival,” promising an energy transformation in the U.S. and globally. However, there are indications of opposition to these nuclear investments, and understanding the challenges ahead, as well as public perception of safety, will be crucial as tech companies pursue their nuclear ambitions.

Source: CNBC