Amazon, Google, and Meta Platforms announced their support for initiatives aimed at tripling the global nuclear energy output by 2050.
At the UN Climate Change Conference in December 2023, the tech corporations signed a pledge that was initially endorsed by over 20 nations, including the US.
The Declaration to Triple Nuclear Energy, which was supported by 25 nations at COP28 in Dubai in December 2023, is notably echoed by the commitment made by major energy consumers. At COP29 in Azerbaijan in November 2024, six additional nations joined the declaration, increasing the total to 31.
Last year, the promise was supported by financial institutions such as Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs, and Bank of America.
Although the promise is not legally obligatory, it does demonstrate the rising support from governments, major corporations, and the financial sector for the expansion of nuclear power.
As Amazon, Google, and Meta expand their artificial intelligence centers, they are expected to become more significant contributors to the energy demand in the US.
After determining that renewable energy sources won't be sufficient to meet its energy demands, the tech industry is now looking to nuclear power.
Last October, Google and Amazon revealed plans to invest in the launch of small nuclear reactors. The industry expects that this technology, which is still in development, could help cut down on the costs and schedules that have beset new reactor construction in the United States.
To assist the tech firm in adding up to four gigawatts of additional nuclear power in the US, Meta called on nuclear developers to submit bids in December.
The World Nuclear Association spearheaded the pledge, which was signed TODAY during the CERAWeek by S&P Global energy conference in Houston.
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It also urges the development of new nuclear technologies for industrial decarbonization, electricity generation, and hydrogen production, including small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced reactors. Signatories encourage other countries to join the initiative, and progress on these commitments is reviewed every year at the COP climate conferences.