Amazon Unveils Plans for Modular Nuclear Reactor in Washington

Amazon is venturing into nuclear energy as part of its strategy to meet the growing demand for power from its artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud services. The company announced plans for a small modular reactor (SMR) at the Cascade Advanced Energy Facility in Richland, Washington. This initiative follows Amazon’s agreements last year to support the development of nuclear energy projects.

In collaboration with Energy Northwest, the utilities agency for Washington State, and X-energy, a developer specializing in SMRs, Amazon aims to construct a facility that will initially accommodate four modular reactors. Each of these reactors is designed to provide up to 320 megawatts of power in the first phase, with the potential to expand to a total of twelve units, yielding a maximum output of 960 megawatts.

The SMR technology offers a smaller footprint compared to traditional nuclear reactors, enhancing operational efficiency while contributing to cleaner energy production. Amazon’s construction plans for the Cascade Advanced Energy Facility are set to commence before the end of the decade, with operations anticipated to begin in the 2030s.

Amazon is not the only major technology firm exploring nuclear energy as a viable power source. In October 2022, Google established a partnership with Kairos Power to develop seven SMRs across the United States. Following that, Meta expressed interest in building a nuclear-powered AI data center, though its plans faced delays due to the discovery of a rare bee species at the proposed site.

The move towards modular nuclear reactors aligns with broader industry trends focused on sustainable energy solutions, particularly as companies like Amazon seek to reduce their carbon footprints and enhance energy reliability for their expansive digital operations. As the demand for energy continues to rise, the integration of SMRs may play a crucial role in shaping the future energy landscape for technology firms, ensuring they can meet operational needs while addressing environmental concerns.