Amazon is advancing its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2040, as the company announced on Wednesday its support for the development of multiple nuclear energy projects.
“Nuclear energy is a safe, carbon-free source that can help power our operations while meeting the increasing demands of our customers and aligning with our Climate Pledge,” said Matt Garman, CEO of Amazon Web Services (AWS).
The new agreements include plans for advanced small modular reactors (SMRs) to be built in Washington State, which will be constructed, owned, and operated by Energy Northwest. These reactors are expected to generate enough energy to power approximately 770,000 homes and create at least 1,000 temporary construction jobs.
Understanding SMRs
According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, an SMR is an advanced type of nuclear reactor with a power output roughly one-third that of a traditional reactor, capable of producing significant amounts of low-carbon electricity.
“We anticipate a growing demand for gigawatts of power in the coming years, and current wind and solar projects alone won’t suffice to meet that demand,” Garman told CNBC. “Nuclear represents a substantial opportunity, especially with the technological advancements in SMRs that promise enhanced safety and easier manufacturing in smaller sizes.”
Additionally, Amazon has partnered with Dominion Energy in Virginia to explore an SMR project near the existing North Anna nuclear power station. The company also previously secured an agreement with Talen Energy’s nuclear facility in Pennsylvania, which will supply carbon-free energy directly to Amazon’s data centers.
The Nuclear Trend Among Big Tech
Amazon is not alone in this shift; other major tech companies are also venturing into nuclear energy. Microsoft plans to reopen the decommissioned Three Mile Island nuclear plant by 2028 to supply power for its data centers. Google recently signed an agreement to purchase nuclear energy from Kairos Power, aiming for implementation by 2030.
In a related achievement, Amazon announced that it has matched all electricity consumed by its global operations with 100% renewable energy—seven years ahead of its initial goal.
“Transitioning to carbon-free energy sources is one of the quickest ways to combat climate change, and nuclear energy is both scalable and sustainable,” Garman emphasized. “Our partnerships will foster the development of new nuclear technologies, generating energy for decades to come.”
