Big Tech Turns to Nuclear Fission for Sustainable Energy Solutions

Artificial intelligence has driven a surge in electricity demand in the U.S., prompting Big Tech companies to seek alternative power sources for their data centers. Nuclear fission, once sidelined due to plant closures, is experiencing a resurgence, appealing to tech giants for its stable, 24/7 power supply.
Small modular reactors (SMRs) are at the forefront of this shift, offering flexibility and cost efficiency compared to traditional reactors. These designs, though not yet operational in the U.S., have attracted investments from Amazon, Google, Meta, and Microsoft.
Notable startups include Kairos Power, backed by Google, which employs molten fluoride salt cooling for enhanced safety. Oklo, supported by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, uses liquid metal cooling and targets the data center sector. Saltfoss, with backing from Bill Gates and Peter Thiel, plans floating reactors, while TerraPower, founded by Gates, develops sodium-cooled reactors with molten salt storage. X-Energy, funded by Amazon’s Climate Pledge Fund, focuses on gas-cooled reactors.
These innovations highlight Big Tech’s commitment to sustainable energy, addressing both operational needs and environmental concerns.

Published: 5/27/2025