- Amazon Goes Nuclear: Amazon Web Services (AWS) announces three separate investments in small modular nuclear reactor (SMR) projects, partnering with utilities like Energy Northwest and Dominion Energy.
- Partnerships for SMRs: AWS is collaborating with utilities to explore integrating SMRs into existing facilities, including Washington’s Columbia Generating Station and Virginia’s North Anna Nuclear Generating Station.
- Investment in X-energy: Amazon will be a key investor in X-energy, supporting the development of their TRISO-based SMR technology, intended for flexible power generation.
Amazon’s AWS division has announced a major push into nuclear energy by committing to three strategic investments, including partnerships with utilities and a direct investment in a nuclear startup. This move highlights Amazon’s focus on finding consistent, carbon-free energy solutions for its data centers. Unlike other companies that are taking a wait-and-see approach, Amazon is putting money up front, demonstrating its urgency to solve growing energy needs.
AWS Partnerships for Small Modular Reactors
Amazon’s deals target SMRs—smaller, advanced reactors that could help provide flexible, modular solutions for energy-hungry server farms. AWS has partnered with Energy Northwest and Dominion Energy to explore integrating these reactors into existing nuclear facilities.
- Energy Northwest: Amazon will fund a feasibility study to add SMRs to the Columbia Generating Station. In return, Amazon gains the option to purchase power from the initial installation, which could be expanded over time based on demand.
- Dominion Energy: A similar deal is in place with Dominion for its North Anna Nuclear Generating Station, although details remain more ambiguous. The companies will work on innovative financing models and risk mitigation strategies to advance SMR development.
X-energy Investment for Reactor Development
Amazon has also become a significant investor in X-energy, a startup working on advanced SMR technology. X-energy’s reactor design uses TRISO fuel—small, self-contained pellets that ensure inherent safety by keeping temperatures low enough to avoid damaging containment structures. These reactors can produce up to 320 MW as a four-reactor system, offering scalability that large nuclear stations often lack.
The company plans to finalize the reactor design and push through the regulatory approval process, bolstered by Amazon’s funding. This investment aims to provide consistent and reliable power for Amazon’s data centers, especially crucial as AI technologies drive up energy demands. Unlike other SMR designs, X-energy’s technology can be scaled to match needs simply by adding more units—a practical solution for growing energy consumption.
