Nuclear Tailwind: Big Tech Bets on Clean Energy

In the technology sector, the challenges of environmentally friendly energy supply are becoming apparent. In particular, the expansion of AI data centers is in focus. Tech players are increasingly turning to nuclear energy to meet the rising energy demand. A significant beneficiary of this trend is Oklo, whose stock value has risen by nearly 200% in the past month. The nuclear startup is supported by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. Oklo plans long-term investments in small modular reactors (SMR), which are expected to be completed and generate electricity by 2027. According to Jake DeWitte, co-founder and CEO of Oklo, nuclear energy offers incredible potential. "When splitting an atom, you get nearly 50 million times more energy than burning a gas molecule," he explains. This energy remains largely untapped in today's reactors, as only 5% of the fuel is used per cycle. Extending operation through more fuel is cost-intensive, as additional systems are required. U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm underscores the urgency of clean energy for AI data centers but emphasizes the hurdle of purchasing the first SMR system. Oklo has already established energy partnerships with data center providers like Equinix and Wyoming Hyperscale. DeWitte describes the traditional business model of the nuclear industry as "cumbersome." Oklo pursues a simpler approach: they design, own, and operate the facilities themselves and sell electricity through power purchase agreements to their customers. Additionally, Amazon is investing in X-energy, while Kairos Power is partnering with Alphabet's Google to leverage the benefits of nuclear energy for the tech industry.