Amazon continues to expand its commitment to sustainability with new investments in nuclear energy . The company announced that it has signed strategic agreements to develop projects with small modular reactors (SMR) , which seek to address the growing energy demands of its operations, especially in its global data centers .
The transition to clean energy sources has been a priority for Amazon, which has already achieved its goal of operating with 100% renewable energy , seven years ahead of schedule. Now, the company is looking to diversify its energy mix with the implementation of nuclear energy, thanks to its ability to offer carbon-free energy in a safe and scalable way.
Amazon’s nuclear energy use agreements
Among the announced projects is an agreement with Energy Northwest , a partnership of utility companies in Washington State, that will see the construction of four advanced SMR reactors. These will have the capacity to generate 320 megawatts in a first phase , with the possibility of scaling up to 960 MW, which would cover the energy needs of more than 770,000 homes.
Additionally, Amazon has invested in X-energy , a leading developer of advanced nuclear technology. This collaboration will enable the construction of SMR reactors using X-energy’s design, which will contribute to the creation of up to 5 gigawatts of new energy capacity .
In Virginia, an agreement with Dominion Energy will also explore the construction of a reactor near the North Anna plant, which would supply at least 300 megawatts of power to the region.
Carbon-free energy
These projects will ensure a secure source of carbon-free energy for Amazon’s operations and will also benefit local communities by creating new jobs. Construction of the Energy Northwest project is expected to create up to 1,000 temporary jobs and 100 permanent jobs once the reactors are operational.
With these investments, Amazon is taking another step toward its commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040 , while supporting the expansion of innovative energy technologies that could shape the future of the industry.
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Source and photos: Amazon
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