According to a recent report from Deloitte, new nuclear power could fill about 10% of the projected increase in data center electricity demand over the next decade.
Deloitte says data centers could consume up to 176 GW by 2035, a substantial increase from 33 GW in 2024. By 2050, data center growth and electrification is expected to drive a 50% increase in U.S. electricity demand.
In the next 10 years, we are projected to see somewhere between 35 GW to 65 GW of new nuclear capacity through power uprates at existing plants, bringing reactors out of retirement, and completely new reactor development. Data centers are expected to consume about 30% of this new capacity.
We’re already seeing some industry momentum:
- Amazon is looking at up to 5 GW of new capacity via X-energy’s small modular reactors
- Google is working with Kairos Power to gain 500 MW of SMR capacity by 2035
- Meta is seeking proposals for up to 4 GW of new nuclear deployments beginning in the early 2030s
With AI’s energy demands spiking, nuclear is the best option for long-term grid reliability. In the meantime, ramping up natural gas capability is our best bet for keeping the lights on while we wait for nuclear tech to catch up.
