Tech companies in the U.S. are seeking stable power sources like nuclear fission to meet increasing electricity demands for data centers amidst AI growth.
Nuclear fission has seen a resurgence due to new reactor designs like small modular reactors (SMRs) that offer more flexibility in meeting energy needs.
Companies like Amazon, Google, Meta, and Microsoft have invested in nuclear startups and signed agreements to secure power for their data centers.
Kairos Power, backed by Google, is developing small modular reactors using molten fluoride salt for cooling and enhanced safety measures.
Oklo, supported by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, is focused on reducing nuclear waste through its liquid metal-cooled reactor design tailored for data centers.
Saltfoss plans to deploy SMRs on ships to create a 'Power Barge,' while TerraPower, founded by Bill Gates, is working on a larger reactor with molten salt energy storage.
TerraPower's Natrium reactor features molten salt heat storage, allowing for steady energy production even during periods of low demand.
X-Energy, supported by Amazon, is developing high-temperature, gas-cooled reactors to generate electricity using fuel 'pebbles' and helium gas.