Amazon, following the footsteps of tech giants Google and Microsoft, is increasing its commitment to nuclear energy to power its data centers, which have a soaring demand for electricity due to advances in artificial intelligence (AI). These initiatives aim to secure a sustainable, reliable power source that aligns with the expansive energy needs of modern AI infrastructures.

Amazon's Strategic Investments Amazon has recently announced several significant investments, the centerpiece being its collaboration with X-energy. This partnership includes the development of advanced nuclear reactors and proprietary fuel systems, with an impressive total investment of $500 million involving various venture capitalists and the University of Michigan.

Small Modular Reactors (SMR) Development Part of Amazon's strategy is to promote the adoption of X-energy's Small Modular Reactors (SMR), which use gas cooling. To facilitate this, Amazon is funding a feasibility study to assess integrating these reactors with the existing Columbia Generating Station in Washington. Should this project proceed, Amazon Web Services (AWS) would have preferential rights to access the output of the first four reactors, potentially tapping into 320 megawatts of electricity. Additionally, there is consideration for up to twelve reactors at the same site.

Energy Demands on Both Coasts AI data centers are particularly concentrated not only in the tech-heavy West Coast's Washington State but also in the East Coast's Virginia, near Washington, D.C. Both regions are experiencing rapid increases in electricity demand. Washington's energy consumption could double within 25 years, while Virginia anticipates similar growth within a mere 15 years.

Collaborations with Dominion Energy In Virginia, Amazon has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with Dominion Energy to explore developing SMRs in the region. The agreement focuses on examining innovative strategies to promote SMR implementation while mitigating costs and development risks, although specifics remain to be clarified.

Comparative Approaches of Tech Giants Unlike Amazon, Google has engaged with Kairos Power's SMRs, agreeing to acquire their entire output, which could reach up to 500 megawatts, despite the reactors not yet being commercially viable. Meanwhile, Microsoft is working to revive a decommissioned nuclear plant at Three Mile Island, ensuring its power supply for the next two decades through significant financial commitments.

Original Source from Heise Online.