As energy demands intensify, particularly with the rise of artificial intelligence requiring expansive data center operations, major technology firms are reconsidering their energy strategies. Amazon, Google (NASDAQ:GOOGL), and Meta (NASDAQ:META) have committed to supporting a global initiative to triple nuclear energy capacity by 2050, aiming to ensure a steady, low-carbon power supply. This decision reflects a broader trend among corporations seeking reliable alternatives to fossil fuels while maintaining sustainability commitments.
Similar commitments to nuclear energy have emerged in recent years as companies have sought to meet emission reduction targets. Previously, corporate energy strategies focused predominantly on wind and solar power, but challenges such as intermittency and storage limitations have led to increased interest in nuclear solutions. Recent investments indicate a shift in priorities, with nuclear now seen as a viable complement to renewable sources.
Why Are Companies Turning to Nuclear Energy?
The pledge, organized by the World Nuclear Association, was signed by multiple companies in addition to Amazon, Google, and Meta, including Siemens Energy and Occidental. The signatories acknowledge that energy demand will grow significantly, and nuclear energy is positioned as a means to enhance energy security and stability. Some technology companies have already committed resources to nuclear projects as part of their broader decarbonization strategies.
What Actions Have Tech Giants Taken?
Meta has taken steps to integrate nuclear energy into its energy mix, launching a request for proposals from nuclear developers to add up to 4 GW of nuclear capacity. Urvi Parekh, Head of Energy at Meta, highlighted the company’s interest in collaborating with utilities and developers to expedite nuclear projects.
“Our RFP approach has been rooted in understanding how we can partner with utilities and to accelerate and spur new nuclear energy projects. We believe that the best chance for success for nuclear to scale quickly will be to install multiple nuclear units and we hope that our engagement will create the certainty needed by the market to begin permitting, siting, designing and engineering these facilities.”
Amazon has also been directing significant investments into nuclear energy, with over $1 billion allocated toward nuclear projects in the past year. Brandon Oyer, representing Amazon Web Services, emphasized the company’s commitment to addressing future energy demands.
“Accelerating nuclear energy development will be critical to strengthening our nation’s security, meeting future energy demands, and addressing climate change.”
Google has set a goal of operating on 24/7 carbon-free energy by 2030. In October 2024, the company signed an agreement with Kairos Power to facilitate the deployment of small advanced nuclear reactors, which could add 500 MW of carbon-free power to its infrastructure. Lucia Tian, Head of Clean Energy & Decarbonization Technologies at Google, reiterated Google’s support for nuclear expansion.
“We are proud to sign a pledge in support of tripling nuclear capacity by 2050, as nuclear power will be pivotal in building a reliable, secure, and sustainable energy future. Google will continue to work alongside our partners to accelerate the commercialization of advanced nuclear technologies that can provide the around-the-clock clean energy necessary to meet growing electricity demand around the world.”
The World Nuclear Association expects more companies across different industries, such as aviation and chemical manufacturing, to join the initiative in the coming months. Sama Bilbao y Leon, Director General of the association, pointed out the importance of nuclear energy in ensuring stable power supply across various sectors.
“The global shift towards more nuclear highlights this is the only way we’ll deliver the abundant firm clean energy required to power growth and innovation in technology, a host of other industries and the entire economy.”
The growing support for nuclear energy among large corporations marks a shift in how companies approach their sustainability goals. While renewable energy sources remain a priority, the need for a stable and consistent power supply is driving investment in nuclear projects. As AI and data center operations require increasingly large amounts of electricity, companies are looking for energy solutions that offer reliability without increasing emissions. The long-term success of this nuclear expansion will depend on factors such as regulatory developments, technological advancements, and cost reductions. The extent to which other industries will follow suit remains to be seen, but the backing from major technology firms could influence broader energy policy discussions.
