Next Generation: New Nuclear Energy Investment in America

As the demand for clean, reliable, and scalable energy solutions intensifies, major U.S. corporations are increasingly turning to advanced nuclear technologies to power their operations. From AI-driven data centres to industrial decarbonisation, new nuclear is emerging as a critical solution to both energy security challenges and climate commitments.

Several high-profile companies—including Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Dow, and X-energy—are making bold moves in small modular reactor (SMR) technology and advanced nuclear partnerships, positioning themselves at the forefront of the clean energy transition.

Amazon & X-energy: Bringing SMRs to Data Centres

In a groundbreaking deal, Amazon has partnered with X-energy and Energy Northwest to deploy up to 5 gigawatts (GW) of nuclear power by 2039. The first phase includes the construction of four SMRs in Washington state, delivering 320 megawatts (MW) of capacity, with potential expansion to 960 MW.

This initiative is part of Amazon’s strategy to power its vast network of data centers with stable, zero-carbon energy, reinforcing its net-zero by 2040 commitment. As AI technology and cloud services increase electricity consumption, this move signals a shift toward nuclear as a long-term solution for energy-intensive digital industries.

🔗 Source: About Amazon

Google & Kairos Power: SMRs for Data Centres

Google has entered into an agreement with Kairos Power to purchase up to 500 MW of electricity from multiple small modular reactors. The first unit is expected online by 2030, supplying Google’s data centers with reliable, carbon-free electricity.

By integrating nuclear energy into its sustainability strategy, Google aims to ensure that its AI and cloud computing operations are powered by clean, always-on energy sources.

🔗 Source: Data Center Frontier

Microsoft & Constellation Energy: Reviving Nuclear for Data Centres

Microsoft has taken a different approach by signing a 20-year power purchase agreement with Constellation Energy to restart the Three Mile Island Unit 1 reactor, now renamed the Crane Clean Energy Center.

This collaboration aims to provide consistent, zero-emission power for Microsoft’s AI and cloud computing infrastructure, reinforcing the tech giant’s goal of becoming carbon negative by 2030.

🔗 Source: Reuters

Dow & X-energy: Deploying SMRs for Industrial Decarbonisation

In March 2023, Dow and X-energy announced a joint development agreement to construct a four-unit Xe-100 advanced SMR plant at Dow’s Seadrift manufacturing site in Texas.

This project will:✅ Provide clean, reliable steam and electricity for Dow’s chemical production processes✅ Reduce Dow’s carbon emissions by 440,000 metric tons annually✅ Serve as a blueprint for industrial decarbonization across heavy industries

With construction planned to start in 2026, this initiative showcases new nuclear’s potential beyond electricity generation, supporting industrial sustainability at scale.

🔗 Source: Dow Corporate

Duke Energy’s Clean Energy Tariffs with Tech Giants

Duke Energy is collaborating with Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and Nucor to establish Accelerating Clean Energy (ACE) tariffs. These innovative financial structures aim to:

✔️ Reduce investment risks in clean energy projects, including new nuclear

✔️ Enable companies to secure long-term carbon-free power

✔️ Expand private-sector funding for next-generation nuclear

By leveraging corporate demand for clean energy, these agreements help fast-track new nuclear deployment and accelerate Net Zero commitments.

🔗 Source: World Nuclear News

The Future of New Nuclear in the Private Sector

The surging demand for energy-intensive AI and cloud computing has placed immense pressure on existing power grids. As companies look for long-term, scalable energy solutions, new nuclear is proving to be a viable, investment-worthy option.

Key trends driving private-sector nuclear investments:

🚀 Energy Security – Ensuring uninterrupted, reliable power for critical operations

🌍 Carbon-Free Goals – Supporting Net Zero and ESG commitments📈 Economic Viability – SMRs offer scalability and predictable energy costs

🏗️ Industrial Decarbonisation – Nuclear is increasingly seen as a viable solution for hard-to-abate sectors

With Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Dow, and others making significant nuclear investments, the momentum for private-sector-led nuclear deployment is stronger than ever. As energy demand continues to rise, expect more corporations to follow suit, driving a new era of clean, resilient, and technology-integrated nuclear power.

🔗 Stay updated on the latest nuclear projects and investment trends at the New Nuclear Summit 2025.