Big Tech investments reignite debate over advanced nuclear reactors
Published On Oct 27, 2024, 9:31 AM
Big Tech companies like Google and Amazon are investing in advanced nuclear technology, particularly small modular reactors (SMRs), to meet the growing energy demands from AI and data centers. These reactors promise cheaper and more efficient nuclear energy, although skepticism remains due to the lack of commercial SMRs operating in the U.S. and concerns about their long construction times and costs. Although these investments may present new opportunities in the energy sector, there are significant challenges including regulatory hurdles and increased waste volume. The U.S. Department of Energy supports these advancements with significant funding, positioning nuclear energy as a crucial component in reducing carbon emissions.