Amazon, Meta, and Google pledge to triple nuclear energy

Amazon, Meta, and Google have pledged to triple global nuclear energy output by 2050. This initiative aims to support growing energy needs, especially for AI-driven data centers. However, Microsoft and Oracle are notably absent from this pledge. The Large Energy Users Pledge, led by the World Nuclear Association, was announced at the World Nuclear Symposium in September 2023. It now has support from 14 global banks, 140 nuclear industry companies, and 31 countries. Currently, nuclear power supplies about 9% of the world’s electricity. Nuclear energy is viewed as essential for providing continuous, clean power, especially as demand increases due to advancements in technology like artificial intelligence. While building a traditional nuclear plant typically takes at least five years, new micro nuclear reactors may be available by the early 2030s and could offer a quicker solution. Google's Head of Clean Energy emphasized the importance of nuclear in creating a secure and sustainable energy future. Meta's Head of Global Energy shared similar sentiments, highlighting the need for a reliable energy supply as global economies expand. Amazon has invested over $1 billion in nuclear energy projects to support its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon by 2040. They, along with other signatories, believe that scaling nuclear power is vital for meeting future energy demands and addressing climate change.