Amazon, Google, and Meta sign up to the Large Energy Users Pledge, in support of tripling global nuclear power capacity by 2050.
The International Energy Agency predicts electricity demand from data centers and AI could double by 2026.
As the technology sector’s energy demands continue to spiral—particularly with the rapid expansion of AI and data centers—tech giants Amazon, Google, and Meta have pledged to support the goal of tripling global nuclear power capacity by 2050.
Taking the pledge: The three companies have signed the Large Energy Users Pledge, an agreement facilitated by the World Nuclear Association (WNA) which has already garnered support from other major corporations including Dow, Occidental, Allseas, and OSGE. The pledge supports increasing nuclear energy capacity to enhance energy resilience, security, and to provide a continuous, clean energy supply.
The nuclear option: The International Energy Agency forecasts that electricity demand from data centers and AI could double by 2026, equating to the current electricity consumption of Japan. Recognizing this, Amazon, Google, and Meta are exploring nuclear options to ensure a stable and clean energy supply for their operations.
Initial investments: While the expansion of nuclear energy faces challenges, including high costs, regulatory hurdles, and public perception issues, the three companies have recently taken steps to nuclear power:
Amazon has invested over $1 billion in nuclear energy projects and technologies, including small modular reactor projects.
Google has entered into agreements to procure nuclear energy from multiple SMRs developed by Kairos Power, with the first reactor expected to be operational by 2030.
Meta has issued a request for proposals seeking up to 4 gigawatts of new nuclear power generation to power its data centers starting in the 2030s.
