Amazon Secures 1.92GW Nuclear Power for AI Data Centers in Pennsylvania

Amazon has signed a landmark 20-year agreement to purchase 1.92 gigawatts of nuclear energy from Talen Energy's Susquehanna nuclear power plant in Pennsylvania to power its AWS cloud and AI data centers, aligning with its goal to reduce its carbon footprint and diversify its energy sources. Initially planned as a behind-the-meter arrangement with a data center adjacent to the plant, regulatory concerns led to a revised deal where electricity will be supplied through the grid, including transmission fees, similar to other customers. Amazon’s move follows similar commitments by Microsoft and Meta, which have also partnered with nuclear operators to supply their AI infrastructure with clean nuclear power, signaling a broader tech industry shift towards sustainable and reliable energy sources. The companies are also exploring the development of small modular reactors and enhancements at existing nuclear facilities to support growing AI energy demands. This pivot to nuclear energy addresses environmental concerns related to high energy consumption in AI and data centers and may set a precedent encouraging other sectors like cryptocurrency to adopt greener energy solutions. The trend has garnered support from U.S. political leaders, including President Donald Trump, who advocates for increased investment in nuclear energy to maintain national technological competitiveness.