Amazon commits over $500 million to nuclear energy innovation
SEATTLE – Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) Inc. has announced a series of investments exceeding $500 million aimed at advancing nuclear energy technologies, including the development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and the maintenance of existing nuclear power facilities. This move aligns with the company’s Climate Pledge to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.
The e-commerce giant is venturing into nuclear power as a reliable and carbon-free energy source to meet its expansive energy requirements and support local communities. Amazon’s initial SMR project is in collaboration with Energy Northwest in Washington State, and a potential second project is being explored with Dominion Energy (NYSE:D) in Virginia. These reactors are designed to be more compact and can be constructed closer to power grids, offering quicker build times than traditional nuclear reactors.
In Pennsylvania, Amazon has partnered with Talen Energy to station a data center campus adjacent to the Susquehanna nuclear facility. This strategic move ensures the plant’s operational funding, which will help cover necessary repairs and relicensing fees without burdening local energy consumers. The project is also expected to yield economic benefits, including job creation and tax revenue.
Amazon’s investments are projected to generate significant employment opportunities. The Washington SMR project could create up to 1,000 construction jobs and over 100 permanent positions, while the Pennsylvania data center initiative is anticipated to foster construction employment and enhance local utility infrastructure.
Furthering its commitment to future nuclear technologies, Amazon has invested in X-energy, a developer of next-generation SMRs and fuel, through its Climate Pledge Fund. This funding is intended to support the development of over five gigawatts of new nuclear energy projects within the next 15 years.
The company is also engaging with utilities and government leaders to promote nuclear energy solutions. Collaborations in Washington State with Energy Northwest and in Virginia with Dominion Energy aim to address the increasing power demands in these regions.
Supporting research into the future of nuclear energy, Amazon Web Services (AWS) backed a study by the Clean Air Task Force (CATF) at COP29. The research highlights how AI can expedite the advancement of nuclear fusion as a new carbon-free energy source.
Amazon’s foray into nuclear energy reflects its willingness to explore new technologies and address the challenges associated with them. The company’s investment in nuclear energy is a strategic step towards fulfilling its Climate Pledge while contributing to a sustainable energy transition. This information is based on a press release statement.
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