Splitting Atoms, Scaling AI: Big Tech’s Nuclear Gambit
Dec 19, 2024
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Chris Gadomski, BloombergNEF’s lead nuclear analyst, discusses the intriguing revival of nuclear power driven by data-hungry tech giants. He emphasizes the potential of small modular reactors (SMRs) while addressing the challenges of new nuclear projects, including regulatory hurdles and cost concerns. The conversation dives into the impact of global events on nuclear perceptions and explores the shortage of skilled labor in the industry. Gadomski also highlights the innovative approaches tech firms are exploring to enhance energy sourcing amid rising demands and climate challenges.
The resurgence of nuclear power is significantly driven by hyperscaler tech companies like Amazon and Google seeking reliable energy for data centers.
Challenges such as regulatory hurdles and project overruns hinder the development of advanced nuclear technologies, although partnerships are forming to address these issues.
Deep dives
Nuclear Power's Renaissance Driven by Tech Demand
The revival of nuclear power in the U.S. is largely driven by the energy needs of hyperscaling tech giants, propelled by the explosive growth of AI and data centers. Forecasts from the U.S. Energy Information Administration predict a 3% increase in electricity demand for 2024, underscoring the necessity for a stable energy source. Nuclear power is seen as a key solution due to its ability to provide reliable, continuous energy, particularly as traditional generation sources face challenges. Companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft are establishing partnerships with nuclear energy firms to secure the necessary energy for their expanding operations.
Challenges in Nuclear Development
Despite the growing interest in nuclear energy, various challenges hinder its development, including regulatory hurdles, cost issues, and the slow pace of industry progress. The small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced reactors are still in the pipeline, with many tech companies waiting for quicker regulatory approval. Furthermore, the U.S. nuclear industry has struggled with project overruns and cost inflation, making it difficult for new facilities to be built on time and within budget. The lack of a skilled workforce for new nuclear projects further complicates the situation, as opportunities for training and experience are limited.
The Role of Hyperscalers and Innovation
Hyperscalar technology companies are shaping the nuclear landscape by actively engaging in partnerships and investments in advanced nuclear technologies. Amazon, Google, and Microsoft have made significant commitments to support the development of nuclear projects that can efficiently meet their energy requirements. For example, they are exploring contracts with advanced reactor developers and considering resurrecting older reactors like the Three Mile Island facility. This collaboration signals a potential shift in the industry, as innovative nuclear technologies seek to streamline production and reduce costs, presenting new opportunities for growth within the energy sector.
The boom in energy-hungry data centers in the US has led to a revival of interest in nuclear power. Small modular reactors, or SMRs, are often held up as the way forward, but the technology remains in development, which has led some big tech firms – or ‘hyperscalers’ – to explore other pathways for using nuclear power. One alternative is restarting some of the 11 nuclear facilities that have been shut in the US in the last 15 years, an option made all the more attractive given the regulatory hurdles, cost concerns and schedule overruns that tend to plague new nuclear projects. On today’s show, Tom is joined by Chris Gadomski, BloombergNEF’s lead nuclear analyst, to discuss key findings from his report “Hyperscalers’ Energy Appetite Boosts Nuclear Prospects”.
Complementary BNEF research on the trends driving the transition to a lower-carbon economy can be found at BNEF<GO> on the Bloomberg Terminal or on bnef.com